Nutrition Counseling Nutritionists and Dietitians in Scranton, PA

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 Emily Richters Fasciana, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Emily Richters Fasciana
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Online Only
Outpatient nutrition counseling using motivational interviewing, intuitive eating and weight-inclusive practices.
Whether you’re navigating a new diagnosis, training for peak performance, or simply trying to feel better in your day‑to‑day life, I help you understand how food can support your body in meaningful, sustainable ways. For those who are tired of dieting and ready for a healthier relationship with food, I also offer intuitive eating support. Together, we focus on rebuilding trust in your body, reducing food guilt, and discovering enjoyable, nourishing habits that last. My goal is to empower you with practical tools, compassionate guidance, and a fresh perspective so you can eat well, feel strong, and thrive in every stage of life.
Outpatient nutrition counseling using motivational interviewing, intuitive eating and weight-inclusive practices.
Whether you’re navigating a new diagnosis, training for peak performance, or simply trying to feel better in your day‑to‑day life, I help you understand how food can support your body in meaningful, sustainable ways. For those who are tired of dieting and ready for a healthier relationship with food, I also offer intuitive eating support. Together, we focus on rebuilding trust in your body, reducing food guilt, and discovering enjoyable, nourishing habits that last. My goal is to empower you with practical tools, compassionate guidance, and a fresh perspective so you can eat well, feel strong, and thrive in every stage of life.
(570) 701-8663 View (570) 701-8663
Photo of Taylor Schirra, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MHSc, RDN, LDN, CPT
Taylor Schirra
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MHSc, RDN, LDN, CPT
Serves Area
I work with individuals who struggle to develop a positive, healthy relationship with food, want to reach certain nutrition or fitness-related goals, or want to improve their overall health and wellbeing. I want to help my clients treat food as fuel to help them become the best and happiest version of themselves. I use a non-diet, educational and science-based approach to nutrition and lifestyle changes, so you will be able to reach your goals without restriction.
I work with individuals who struggle to develop a positive, healthy relationship with food, want to reach certain nutrition or fitness-related goals, or want to improve their overall health and wellbeing. I want to help my clients treat food as fuel to help them become the best and happiest version of themselves. I use a non-diet, educational and science-based approach to nutrition and lifestyle changes, so you will be able to reach your goals without restriction.
(570) 715-6907 View (570) 715-6907

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Brooke Evans, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Brooke Evans
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Kingston, PA 18704
I offer in-person and online nutrition counseling and online nutrition coaching and fitness coaching.
My vision is for all of us to live in a world where food is fuel, food is comfort, and food is fun. If you have ever struggled with your relationship with food, I want you to know there is hope. No extremes, no fad diets. Just healthy habit formation and education.
I offer in-person and online nutrition counseling and online nutrition coaching and fitness coaching.
My vision is for all of us to live in a world where food is fuel, food is comfort, and food is fun. If you have ever struggled with your relationship with food, I want you to know there is hope. No extremes, no fad diets. Just healthy habit formation and education.
(272) 233-4814 View (272) 233-4814

Online Dietitians and Nutritionists

Photo of Andrew Brown - A&L Brown Nutrition Services, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, BS
A&L Brown Nutrition Services
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, BS
Royersford, PA 19468
In addition to Traditional Nutrition Counseling, we offer Grocery Store Tours, Kitchen Pantry Make-Overs, Computer Diet Analysis, and Cooking Seminars.
A&L Brown Dietitian, Andrew Brown, is a Registered Dietitian (RD) and Licensed Dietitian-Nutritionist (LDN) and a member of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics with 7 years experience in a clinical setting. He has also trained in food service management and community nutrition. His experience includes hospitals, nursing homes, school/college cafeterias, and inner city nutrition programs. He has worked with clients involving many medical conditions, diseases, and weight gain/loss cases.
In addition to Traditional Nutrition Counseling, we offer Grocery Store Tours, Kitchen Pantry Make-Overs, Computer Diet Analysis, and Cooking Seminars.
A&L Brown Dietitian, Andrew Brown, is a Registered Dietitian (RD) and Licensed Dietitian-Nutritionist (LDN) and a member of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics with 7 years experience in a clinical setting. He has also trained in food service management and community nutrition. His experience includes hospitals, nursing homes, school/college cafeterias, and inner city nutrition programs. He has worked with clients involving many medical conditions, diseases, and weight gain/loss cases.
(610) 285-9441 View (610) 285-9441
Photo of Yoshiko K Roth-Hidalgo, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Yoshiko K Roth-Hidalgo
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Newtown, PA 18940
I provide personalized, evidence-based nutrition counseling with a focus on digestive health, diabetes, women’s health, and autoimmune conditions.
I am a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who works with individuals and families looking for clear, practical guidance around nutrition. I help simplify nutrition into manageable steps so you can feel more confident in your choices and build sustainable habits that support your long-term health. I am also fluent in Japanese and German and welcome individuals from a wide range of backgrounds.
I provide personalized, evidence-based nutrition counseling with a focus on digestive health, diabetes, women’s health, and autoimmune conditions.
I am a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who works with individuals and families looking for clear, practical guidance around nutrition. I help simplify nutrition into manageable steps so you can feel more confident in your choices and build sustainable habits that support your long-term health. I am also fluent in Japanese and German and welcome individuals from a wide range of backgrounds.
(215) 974-7200 View (215) 974-7200
Photo of Carly Waldman, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, L/DN
Carly Waldman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, L/DN
Online Only
My focus is on offering personalized nutrition counseling tailored to fit you and your lifestyle!
I have experience working with all different types of people with different backgrounds. I enjoy working with all ages and enjoy watching others reach their health and nutrition goals!
My focus is on offering personalized nutrition counseling tailored to fit you and your lifestyle!
I have experience working with all different types of people with different backgrounds. I enjoy working with all ages and enjoy watching others reach their health and nutrition goals!
(267) 450-2783 View (267) 450-2783
Photo of Angela Luciani, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MBA, RD, LDN
Angela Luciani
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MBA, RD, LDN
Online Only
Angela Luciani holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nutrition and Dietetics from Drexel University. As a clinical dietitian, Angela has extensive experience working with a variety of medical conditions - specializing specifically in weight loss, eating disorders (including Family Based Therapy), heart-healthy nutrition and much more.
Angela Luciani holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Nutrition and Dietetics from Drexel University. As a clinical dietitian, Angela has extensive experience working with a variety of medical conditions - specializing specifically in weight loss, eating disorders (including Family Based Therapy), heart-healthy nutrition and much more.
(717) 527-7988 View (717) 527-7988
Photo of Elena Schumacher, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN
Elena Schumacher
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN
Online Only
I believe that nutrition is the cornerstone of a healthy life, and I'm here to provide you with evidence-based guidance, practical advice, and ongoing support. I will take into account your unique needs, preferences, and lifestyle, ensuring that your journey towards better health is both enjoyable and sustainable.
I believe that nutrition is the cornerstone of a healthy life, and I'm here to provide you with evidence-based guidance, practical advice, and ongoing support. I will take into account your unique needs, preferences, and lifestyle, ensuring that your journey towards better health is both enjoyable and sustainable.
(610) 200-6981 View (610) 200-6981
Photo of Linda Matthews, Nutritionist/Dietitian, NTP
Linda Matthews
Nutritionist/Dietitian, NTP
5 Endorsed
Collegeville, PA 19426
If you’ve been to doctor after doctor without real answers, you’re not alone—and I’m here to change that! I specialize in complex health challenges and help clients recover from issues like autoimmune disease, severe digestive symptoms, hormone imbalances, chronic fatigue, brain fog, and stubborn weight that just won’t budge. I also work with SIBO, histamine intolerance, oxalates, salicylates, lectins, PMS, thyroid issues, joint pain, eating disorders, mold toxicity, anxiety/ depression and arthritis. As a functional nutritionist, I go beyond symptom management—I uncover and address the root cause so true healing can begin.
If you’ve been to doctor after doctor without real answers, you’re not alone—and I’m here to change that! I specialize in complex health challenges and help clients recover from issues like autoimmune disease, severe digestive symptoms, hormone imbalances, chronic fatigue, brain fog, and stubborn weight that just won’t budge. I also work with SIBO, histamine intolerance, oxalates, salicylates, lectins, PMS, thyroid issues, joint pain, eating disorders, mold toxicity, anxiety/ depression and arthritis. As a functional nutritionist, I go beyond symptom management—I uncover and address the root cause so true healing can begin.
(484) 749-9525 View (484) 749-9525
Photo of Genevieve Dooner, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, MS, RYT
Genevieve Dooner
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, MS, RYT
Online Only
Are you struggling with weight that won’t budge, low energy, frustrating GI symptoms, or hormonal imbalances? Do you feel overwhelmed by all the conflicting nutrition advice out there? Whether you’re navigating weight management, diabetes, heart health, menopause, or simply trying to eat in a more balanced way, I help break nutrition down into simple steps that actually fit your life. As a Registered Dietitian and Yoga Teacher, I combine evidence-based nutrition with a supportive, realistic approach so you can build confidence, improve your energy, and feel at ease with food again.
Are you struggling with weight that won’t budge, low energy, frustrating GI symptoms, or hormonal imbalances? Do you feel overwhelmed by all the conflicting nutrition advice out there? Whether you’re navigating weight management, diabetes, heart health, menopause, or simply trying to eat in a more balanced way, I help break nutrition down into simple steps that actually fit your life. As a Registered Dietitian and Yoga Teacher, I combine evidence-based nutrition with a supportive, realistic approach so you can build confidence, improve your energy, and feel at ease with food again.
(484) 759-7466 View (484) 759-7466
Photo of Anthony Tassoni - VitaMental Nutrition, LLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CSOWM, LDN
VitaMental Nutrition, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CSOWM, LDN
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My goal is to make nutrition counseling accessible by utilizing telehealth and accepting health insurance.
The number one thing I hear is "I know what I need to do, but I'm not doing it." My intention is to break down that barrier to help start doing it. My ideal client is someone who wants and/or needs to make changes to their diet and lifestyle, but looking for a professional who can guide them and provide accountability. Whether this is for weight loss, heart health, diabetes, sports nutrition or just for eating healthier, my goal is support you.
My goal is to make nutrition counseling accessible by utilizing telehealth and accepting health insurance.
The number one thing I hear is "I know what I need to do, but I'm not doing it." My intention is to break down that barrier to help start doing it. My ideal client is someone who wants and/or needs to make changes to their diet and lifestyle, but looking for a professional who can guide them and provide accountability. Whether this is for weight loss, heart health, diabetes, sports nutrition or just for eating healthier, my goal is support you.
(484) 351-6756 View (484) 351-6756
Photo of Kristie L Finnan, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Kristie L Finnan
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
1 Endorsed
Doylestown, PA 18902
Now offering Tele-health via video or phone (Yes, most insurance plans still covering Nutrition Counseling
Looking to improve your health & wellness? Every client is different. Let me help you individualize a plan to meet your needs. Whether you are looking to lose weight, improve your digestive health (I specialize in the Low FODMAP diet) lower cholesterol or blood sugar, I am happy to help! I also have experience and am passionate about helping athletes eat right for top performance. Food is fuel. Let me help you figure out the best fuel for you! I am a Registered Dietitian/Licensed Nutritionist in Doylestown, PA (NOTE: I also offer tele-health and phone consults for those too far away) Book appointment online: www.EatRightBucks.com
Now offering Tele-health via video or phone (Yes, most insurance plans still covering Nutrition Counseling
Looking to improve your health & wellness? Every client is different. Let me help you individualize a plan to meet your needs. Whether you are looking to lose weight, improve your digestive health (I specialize in the Low FODMAP diet) lower cholesterol or blood sugar, I am happy to help! I also have experience and am passionate about helping athletes eat right for top performance. Food is fuel. Let me help you figure out the best fuel for you! I am a Registered Dietitian/Licensed Nutritionist in Doylestown, PA (NOTE: I also offer tele-health and phone consults for those too far away) Book appointment online: www.EatRightBucks.com
(267) 573-8057 View (267) 573-8057
Photo of Claire DeMenna, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Claire DeMenna
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Online Only
I specialize helping individuals navigating eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, ARFID, OSFED), as well as those experiencing GI concerns, body image, identity exploration, or major life transitions. Many of my clients feel out of control around food, stuck in restrictive or binge cycles, or disconnected from their bodies. I take a compassionate, weight-inclusive, and trauma-informed approach, helping clients understand the root of their struggles, rebuild trust with their bodies, and move toward a more peaceful, sustainable relationship with food and themselves.
I specialize helping individuals navigating eating disorders (anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, ARFID, OSFED), as well as those experiencing GI concerns, body image, identity exploration, or major life transitions. Many of my clients feel out of control around food, stuck in restrictive or binge cycles, or disconnected from their bodies. I take a compassionate, weight-inclusive, and trauma-informed approach, helping clients understand the root of their struggles, rebuild trust with their bodies, and move toward a more peaceful, sustainable relationship with food and themselves.
(610) 423-1721 View (610) 423-1721
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 Stephanie Flemming, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Stephanie Flemming
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Doylestown, PA 18901
Stephanie is a passionate Registered Dietitian who specializes in eating disorders and eating-related issues, including Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), as well as weight management and sports nutrition. Stephanie has additional experience treating gastrointestinal issues, diabetes management, cardiovascular health, and renal disease. She believes nutrition is integral in all aspects of one’s health and strives to understand her clients on an interpersonal level in order to assist them with their complex issues around food.
Stephanie is a passionate Registered Dietitian who specializes in eating disorders and eating-related issues, including Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), as well as weight management and sports nutrition. Stephanie has additional experience treating gastrointestinal issues, diabetes management, cardiovascular health, and renal disease. She believes nutrition is integral in all aspects of one’s health and strives to understand her clients on an interpersonal level in order to assist them with their complex issues around food.
(267) 380-2874 View (267) 380-2874
Photo of Christine De Jonghe, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Christine De Jonghe
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Online Only
If you answered yes to any of these questions then you may benefit from nutrition counseling.
My practice philosophy is rooted in mindfulness, intuitive eating principles and body positivity. My practice style is compassionate, patient, and encouraging that enmeshes nutrition science, body acceptance, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) to provide practical strategies for your healing journey.
If you answered yes to any of these questions then you may benefit from nutrition counseling.
My practice philosophy is rooted in mindfulness, intuitive eating principles and body positivity. My practice style is compassionate, patient, and encouraging that enmeshes nutrition science, body acceptance, cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) and dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) to provide practical strategies for your healing journey.
(484) 799-8707 View (484) 799-8707
Photo of Wendy Romig, Nutritionist/Dietitian, DCN, MS, CNS, LDN
Wendy Romig
Nutritionist/Dietitian, DCN, MS, CNS, LDN
Online Only
Doctor of Clinical Nutrition - Over 80% of clients who work with me start to see improvements within 3 weeks. At my clinic, Sage Integrative Health Center, I offer clinical expertise for a wide range of complex health concerns using functional nutrition, herbal medicine and wellness counseling. After your initial consultation, you will receive a comprehensive, customized therapeutic plan which includes my clinical assessment of your condition, nutritional strategies, meal plans, lifestyle recommendations, and areas for monitoring progress. Schedule a complimentary 15-minute phone call or introductory visit to learn more.
Doctor of Clinical Nutrition - Over 80% of clients who work with me start to see improvements within 3 weeks. At my clinic, Sage Integrative Health Center, I offer clinical expertise for a wide range of complex health concerns using functional nutrition, herbal medicine and wellness counseling. After your initial consultation, you will receive a comprehensive, customized therapeutic plan which includes my clinical assessment of your condition, nutritional strategies, meal plans, lifestyle recommendations, and areas for monitoring progress. Schedule a complimentary 15-minute phone call or introductory visit to learn more.
(215) 866-2417 View (215) 866-2417
Photo of Heather Rudalavage, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Heather Rudalavage
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Newtown, PA 18940
Feel out of control around food? Tired of dieting, hate your body, want to lose weight or have medical concerns? Maybe a doctor told you that you need to lose weight or maybe you have just never been happy with your size. If you are frustrated that diets either don't work for you or cause you to cycle between restriction and overeating or you are uncomfortable in your body, I would love to set up a time to chat to see if we would be a good fit! I help clients like you feel good in their skin and improve their relationship with food! Contacting me is the first step in your journey to wellbeing.
Feel out of control around food? Tired of dieting, hate your body, want to lose weight or have medical concerns? Maybe a doctor told you that you need to lose weight or maybe you have just never been happy with your size. If you are frustrated that diets either don't work for you or cause you to cycle between restriction and overeating or you are uncomfortable in your body, I would love to set up a time to chat to see if we would be a good fit! I help clients like you feel good in their skin and improve their relationship with food! Contacting me is the first step in your journey to wellbeing.
(215) 385-5541 View (215) 385-5541
Photo of Shannon Leatherman, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN, CLT
Shannon Leatherman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN, CLT
1 Endorsed
Souderton, PA 18964
With over 17 years experience as a dietitian, I have a variety of personal and professional interests in maternal and pediatric nutrition. I enjoy helping children and teenagers with picky eating, eating disorders and weight concerns. I also love helping women navigate fertility, prenatal and infant nutrition stages. In my practice, I incorporate principles of intuitive eating, functional and culinary nutrition and creative problem-solving strategies to help my clients. I'm also certified in Childhood and Adolescent Weight Management and MRT food sensitivity testing.
With over 17 years experience as a dietitian, I have a variety of personal and professional interests in maternal and pediatric nutrition. I enjoy helping children and teenagers with picky eating, eating disorders and weight concerns. I also love helping women navigate fertility, prenatal and infant nutrition stages. In my practice, I incorporate principles of intuitive eating, functional and culinary nutrition and creative problem-solving strategies to help my clients. I'm also certified in Childhood and Adolescent Weight Management and MRT food sensitivity testing.
(215) 709-5605 View (215) 709-5605
Nutrition Counseling Nutritionists and Dietitians
What is nutrition counseling?
Nutrition counseling refers to the services provided by a Registered Dietitian (RD) that focus on diet and nutrition. Individuals often seek nutrition counseling to make diet-related lifestyle changes, especially after being diagnosed with chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, or cardiovascular disease. However, nutrition counseling is not limited to these cases, and it can often benefit anyone looking to improve their overall health. Nutrition counselors also often address other aspects of a healthy lifestyle within sessions, such as advising on physical activity, chronic disease management, and mental health. They provide guidance and motivation, often adopting a holistic approach to support clients in achieving their health and wellbeing goals.

Who should see a nutrition counselor?
Many people can benefit from seeing a nutrition counselor; however, individuals with (or at risk of developing) chronic medical conditions or who have specific dietary challenges (for example, IBS, Crohn's disease, etc.) may find a nutrition counselor particularly helpful. Nutrition counselors are specifically trained to use diet modifications to manage health, so consulting a dietitian if you have a chronic condition can be greatly beneficial. Nutrition professionals can help clients understand how their diet impacts their symptoms and suggest strategies to improve overall health. Additionally, dietitians can coordinate with other medical professionals, such as primary care physicians or specialty physicians, to help support the client's overall health.

What happens during a nutrition counseling session?
Nutrition counseling is fundamentally focused on a client's individual health goals. The initial session with a nutrition professional typically involves an evaluation, during which the dietitian seeks to understand the client's reasons for seeking nutrition counseling. This session typically includes discussing the client's health history, current eating habits, lifestyle, and specific nutrition counseling goals. In follow-up sessions, the client and dietitian will typically review progress toward these goals, and the dietitian may examine the client's food intake and suggest areas for improvement. They may also educate the client on diet-related topics, such as ensuring adequate consumption of fruits and vegetables or reducing sodium intake. Additionally, nutrition counselors can help clients stay accountable for other lifestyle changes that support overall health, such as regular exercise, smoking cessation, or moderating alcohol consumption.

What should I look for in a nutrition counselor?
Clients seek nutritional support from dietitians and nutritionists for various reasons, ranging from managing medical conditions to addressing lifestyle concerns like weight loss or specific dietary requirements. When looking for a nutrition counselor, it is essential to find someone with expertise in the area of nutrition relevant to your needs. Consider factors such as insurance coverage, specific medical or dietary concerns, and the availability of professionals in your area to determine the best fit. Generally, nutritionists are not covered by insurance, whereas Registered Dietitians (RDs) often are, making it important to look for a professional with RD credentials. If you have a chronic medical condition like cancer or kidney disease, you may be interested in seeking 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), as these credentials indicate advanced education and a commitment to ongoing learning within a specific area.