Nutritionists and Dietitians in Columbia, SC
Tapestry Wellness Institute
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MBA, RDN, CPT, LD
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29229
I am a Registered Dietitian and Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor. Intuitive eating counseling and health at every size (HAES) methodologies allow me to help people build habits and skills to achieve goals despite imperfect practice. Our efforts to change may seem ineffective and imperfect and that is because we are learning. Tapestry Wellness is an institute of learning and advocacy for better access and knowledge to enhance active adult living with medical nutrition therapy. Wellness is a journey like weaving a tapestry using different fabrics, colors, and materials. Tapestries are unique- just like you!
I am a Registered Dietitian and Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor. Intuitive eating counseling and health at every size (HAES) methodologies allow me to help people build habits and skills to achieve goals despite imperfect practice. Our efforts to change may seem ineffective and imperfect and that is because we are learning. Tapestry Wellness is an institute of learning and advocacy for better access and knowledge to enhance active adult living with medical nutrition therapy. Wellness is a journey like weaving a tapestry using different fabrics, colors, and materials. Tapestries are unique- just like you!
Courtney Erin Armstrong
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29205
Are you feeling stuck? Confused by diet myths and ever changing nutrition information? Let me join you on your journey! I am a Registered Dietitian and experienced nutrition therapist that specializes in guiding clients to live in freedom of a healthy relationship with food while improving wellness through balanced nutrition. We will work together to develop an attainable plan tailored specifically to you and your goals. Don't be a slave to the scale! Leave dieting and disordered eating patterns behind and embrace a healthy relationship with food. With the right tools and guidance, you can improve your health!
Are you feeling stuck? Confused by diet myths and ever changing nutrition information? Let me join you on your journey! I am a Registered Dietitian and experienced nutrition therapist that specializes in guiding clients to live in freedom of a healthy relationship with food while improving wellness through balanced nutrition. We will work together to develop an attainable plan tailored specifically to you and your goals. Don't be a slave to the scale! Leave dieting and disordered eating patterns behind and embrace a healthy relationship with food. With the right tools and guidance, you can improve your health!
Are you sick and tired of the diet cycle? I believe everyone deserves a stress-free relationship with food, eating, and exercise. But these days, eating can feel more rigid and frustrating than joyful or even (gasp) fun. Let’s change that! Are you confused about nutrition? Wondering how you should be eating with a medical condition? Struggle with disordered eating patterns or a diagnosed Eating Disorder? Or simply want to improve your eating habits? You’re in the right place. I specialize in Intuitive Eating and eating disorder recovery from a Health at Every Size (HAES) lens. Let’s partner together to reach YOUR optimal health.
Are you sick and tired of the diet cycle? I believe everyone deserves a stress-free relationship with food, eating, and exercise. But these days, eating can feel more rigid and frustrating than joyful or even (gasp) fun. Let’s change that! Are you confused about nutrition? Wondering how you should be eating with a medical condition? Struggle with disordered eating patterns or a diagnosed Eating Disorder? Or simply want to improve your eating habits? You’re in the right place. I specialize in Intuitive Eating and eating disorder recovery from a Health at Every Size (HAES) lens. Let’s partner together to reach YOUR optimal health.
Finding peace with food can seem difficult, but it doesn’t have to be. Eating is an essential part of each day, and when you feel constricted by it, it effects other aspects of life. I want to help you find freedom and put joy back back into eating. If you struggle with cyclic dieting, disordered eating, or even feel out of control with food, you’ve come to the right place. I believe in intuitive eating and engage in a non-diet approach that helps you break free from diet mentality and food guilt. My approach is individualized and focused on what is most beneficial for you in your current time and environment.
Finding peace with food can seem difficult, but it doesn’t have to be. Eating is an essential part of each day, and when you feel constricted by it, it effects other aspects of life. I want to help you find freedom and put joy back back into eating. If you struggle with cyclic dieting, disordered eating, or even feel out of control with food, you’ve come to the right place. I believe in intuitive eating and engage in a non-diet approach that helps you break free from diet mentality and food guilt. My approach is individualized and focused on what is most beneficial for you in your current time and environment.
Jenn Ritchie
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29201 (Online Only)
My name is Jenn Ritchie and I am registered dietitian, certified Intuitive Eating Counselor, and founder of Soulshine Nutrition. We offer nutrition services through a non-diet, HAES-aligned lens, and offer nutrition therapy and counseling to clients across multiple states in a virtual setting. We provide nutrition services for those seeking non-judgmental, weight neutral and individualized nutrition counseling which prioritizes nourishment for body AND mind.
My name is Jenn Ritchie and I am registered dietitian, certified Intuitive Eating Counselor, and founder of Soulshine Nutrition. We offer nutrition services through a non-diet, HAES-aligned lens, and offer nutrition therapy and counseling to clients across multiple states in a virtual setting. We provide nutrition services for those seeking non-judgmental, weight neutral and individualized nutrition counseling which prioritizes nourishment for body AND mind.
Taryn Mattern (Hormone + Gut Health Dietitian)
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29223
Are you struggling to feel heard and understood when it comes to the symptoms you’re experiencing on a daily basis? You don’t feel like yourself and you haven’t for a while now. It can be exhausting when you feel like you’re spinning your wheels and no one truly understands (or takes the time to understand) how you’re feeling. You’re constantly fatigued with gut symptoms, unable to think clearly, have low mood, imbalanced hormones and lack confidence in your skin. Now, how in the WORLD are you supposed to do all of the things on your to-do list when you feel this way?
Are you struggling to feel heard and understood when it comes to the symptoms you’re experiencing on a daily basis? You don’t feel like yourself and you haven’t for a while now. It can be exhausting when you feel like you’re spinning your wheels and no one truly understands (or takes the time to understand) how you’re feeling. You’re constantly fatigued with gut symptoms, unable to think clearly, have low mood, imbalanced hormones and lack confidence in your skin. Now, how in the WORLD are you supposed to do all of the things on your to-do list when you feel this way?
Jessica Jaeger
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29208 (Online Only)
Are you ready to break free from your eating disorder, exercise compulsions, and find joy in food again? Jessica is an eating disorder specialist with a special interest in sports nutrition and women's health. If you are looking to cultivate a positive relationship with food while also addressing athletics, eating in a college setting, PCOS and other women's health issues, Jessica may be the clinician for you. Jessica's clients tell us they love working with her because she is knowledgeable, kind, and nonjudgmental.
Are you ready to break free from your eating disorder, exercise compulsions, and find joy in food again? Jessica is an eating disorder specialist with a special interest in sports nutrition and women's health. If you are looking to cultivate a positive relationship with food while also addressing athletics, eating in a college setting, PCOS and other women's health issues, Jessica may be the clinician for you. Jessica's clients tell us they love working with her because she is knowledgeable, kind, and nonjudgmental.
Kasey Strouse
Nutritionist/Dietitian, LDN, RDN, CEDS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29204
If you are struggling to develop a peaceful relationship with food, know that you are not alone. Confusing messages telling us how to eat, what to eat, and when to eat can make us wonder why eating has gotten so complicated. The short answer: it doesn't have to be. Whether you have been diagnosed with an eating disorder, suffer from disordered eating, or just want to know how to nourish your body without going on another diet, I can help.
If you are struggling to develop a peaceful relationship with food, know that you are not alone. Confusing messages telling us how to eat, what to eat, and when to eat can make us wonder why eating has gotten so complicated. The short answer: it doesn't have to be. Whether you have been diagnosed with an eating disorder, suffer from disordered eating, or just want to know how to nourish your body without going on another diet, I can help.
Molly Ostrander (Women's Gut Health Nutrition)
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN LDN, IFNCP
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29206 (Online Only)
Empowering women to ditch the shame, put themselves first, and heal from GI disease and disorders using a holistic, personalized approach. If you are looking for someone to listen to you and help with what to eat, normalize your bowel movements, increase energy, and beat the bloat, I can help you. I am a dietitian specializing in women's gastrointestinal health. Digestive issues reduce your quality of life and are isolating and embarrassing. I know this because I have had Crohn's disease for over 20 years. There is no one magic diet for GI issues. Each body is different, and each has its own story to tell.
Empowering women to ditch the shame, put themselves first, and heal from GI disease and disorders using a holistic, personalized approach. If you are looking for someone to listen to you and help with what to eat, normalize your bowel movements, increase energy, and beat the bloat, I can help you. I am a dietitian specializing in women's gastrointestinal health. Digestive issues reduce your quality of life and are isolating and embarrassing. I know this because I have had Crohn's disease for over 20 years. There is no one magic diet for GI issues. Each body is different, and each has its own story to tell.
Karli M. Hogsed
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Verified Verified
Columbia, SC 29201 (Online Only)
Karli completed her undergraduate degree from Clemson University in Food Science and Nutrition with a Minor in Chemistry. Karli then completed her Master’s in Exercise Physiology from Florida State University in Tallahassee, FL including a post-graduate internship as an Exercise Science and Sports Nutrition Intern at the National Training Center in Clermont, FL. Following graduate school, Karli then completed her Distant Dietetic Internship and obtained her RDN credential in Charlotte, NC. Karli holds state licensure as a LDN in: ID, MT, NC & SC. Checking Booking link for Insurance.
Karli completed her undergraduate degree from Clemson University in Food Science and Nutrition with a Minor in Chemistry. Karli then completed her Master’s in Exercise Physiology from Florida State University in Tallahassee, FL including a post-graduate internship as an Exercise Science and Sports Nutrition Intern at the National Training Center in Clermont, FL. Following graduate school, Karli then completed her Distant Dietetic Internship and obtained her RDN credential in Charlotte, NC. Karli holds state licensure as a LDN in: ID, MT, NC & SC. Checking Booking link for Insurance.
More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby
Hi! My name is Kristen Ziesmer, I am a registered dietitian, board certified specialist in sports dietetics and a certified personal trainer. I am the owner of Elite Nutrition and Performance, LLC, a comprehensive nutrition and fitness consulting practice located in the Greenville area of South Carolina. I work with athletes and active individuals ages 10 and up perform at their peak by combining science with practical application. I also work with clients with eating disorders, chronic illnesses and those looking to lose body fat or gain muscle mass.
Hi! My name is Kristen Ziesmer, I am a registered dietitian, board certified specialist in sports dietetics and a certified personal trainer. I am the owner of Elite Nutrition and Performance, LLC, a comprehensive nutrition and fitness consulting practice located in the Greenville area of South Carolina. I work with athletes and active individuals ages 10 and up perform at their peak by combining science with practical application. I also work with clients with eating disorders, chronic illnesses and those looking to lose body fat or gain muscle mass.
Who would benefit from working with a Bone Health Nutrition Expert? Have you received a diagnosis of osteoporosis, osteopenia or a fracture? Do you have a family history of osteoporosis? Do you have a condition such as celiac disease or other intestinal bowel disease (IBD) or have you had bariatric surgery? Do you have a history of an eating disorder, excessive dieting or poor protein intake? Have you used PPI’s (proton pump inhibitors) for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)? Are you postmenopausal? Have you undergone cancer treatment using hormones? These are just a few reasons that someone needs bone health support.
Who would benefit from working with a Bone Health Nutrition Expert? Have you received a diagnosis of osteoporosis, osteopenia or a fracture? Do you have a family history of osteoporosis? Do you have a condition such as celiac disease or other intestinal bowel disease (IBD) or have you had bariatric surgery? Do you have a history of an eating disorder, excessive dieting or poor protein intake? Have you used PPI’s (proton pump inhibitors) for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)? Are you postmenopausal? Have you undergone cancer treatment using hormones? These are just a few reasons that someone needs bone health support.
Online Dietitians and Nutritionists
As a dietitian I am able to help people in a variety of ways. From sports performance, weight management, diabetes and disease management and other client needs I have been trained in a variety of areas to understand and apply science and research to develop the plan of action to help. Using evidenced based practices, I am able to create and execute a realistic and achievable plan for my clients.
As a dietitian I am able to help people in a variety of ways. From sports performance, weight management, diabetes and disease management and other client needs I have been trained in a variety of areas to understand and apply science and research to develop the plan of action to help. Using evidenced based practices, I am able to create and execute a realistic and achievable plan for my clients.
Registered Dietitian Specializing in PCOS and Prediabetes. Hi! Are you looking for Nutrition Therapy to help you address the root cause of PCOS or Prediabetes? Have you been offered medications but are really more interested in nutrition and lifestyle approaches? Maybe you are curious about supplements but feel overwhelmed by all the options. The women that work with me are looking for an effective nutrition plan that fits her body and her life. Let's work together to optimize your nutrition, resolve frustrating symptoms, & eat with confidence.
Registered Dietitian Specializing in PCOS and Prediabetes. Hi! Are you looking for Nutrition Therapy to help you address the root cause of PCOS or Prediabetes? Have you been offered medications but are really more interested in nutrition and lifestyle approaches? Maybe you are curious about supplements but feel overwhelmed by all the options. The women that work with me are looking for an effective nutrition plan that fits her body and her life. Let's work together to optimize your nutrition, resolve frustrating symptoms, & eat with confidence.
Alex Winnicki
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS , RDN, LDN, CSSD
Verified Verified
Greer, SC 29650 (Online Only)
I specialize in taking top level performance nutrition research and applying it to all sports in a sustainable and easy to understand way. Formerly working at Northwestern University and then serving as Director of Sports Nutrition at Liberty University, I understand the challenges athletes face in trying to reach the next level. Whether trying to optimize growth, recover from injury, or improve your relationship with food and body, I'm here to guide you back to peak performance.
I specialize in taking top level performance nutrition research and applying it to all sports in a sustainable and easy to understand way. Formerly working at Northwestern University and then serving as Director of Sports Nutrition at Liberty University, I understand the challenges athletes face in trying to reach the next level. Whether trying to optimize growth, recover from injury, or improve your relationship with food and body, I'm here to guide you back to peak performance.
Alana Walling
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Verified Verified
Spartanburg, SC 29306 (Online Only)
AS I Am Nutrition was created by me, Alana Walling. I am a registered dietitian and licensed nutritionist offering virtual nutrition counseling to people desiring a healthy relationship with food. I have expertise as a dietitian helping people who struggle with eating disorders ( anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, ARFID), etc.), body image, chronic dieting, and much more. I use a compassionate and unconventional approach to help you apply evidenced-based nutritional practices to create a life free of food worry. Contact me today if you would like to learn more about how I can guide you on a path to food peace!
AS I Am Nutrition was created by me, Alana Walling. I am a registered dietitian and licensed nutritionist offering virtual nutrition counseling to people desiring a healthy relationship with food. I have expertise as a dietitian helping people who struggle with eating disorders ( anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, ARFID), etc.), body image, chronic dieting, and much more. I use a compassionate and unconventional approach to help you apply evidenced-based nutritional practices to create a life free of food worry. Contact me today if you would like to learn more about how I can guide you on a path to food peace!
Vanessa Connolly
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CSR, LD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Goose Creek, SC 29445 (Online Only)
You are recently with chronic kidney disease and feel overwhelmed and confused about what you read on the internet. You may be struggling to figure out what to eat for kidney health. Maybe you are here and you are struggling with fatigue, low energy and or fluid swelling; this has caused a lot of stress, anxiety and frustration and what you really need is clarity about why you are having these symptoms. You're here and also struggle with uncontrolled blood sugars or blood pressure and you're confused with what to do with diet for sugar, blood pressure and CKD and how to make it all work. I'm here to say, you're not alone.
You are recently with chronic kidney disease and feel overwhelmed and confused about what you read on the internet. You may be struggling to figure out what to eat for kidney health. Maybe you are here and you are struggling with fatigue, low energy and or fluid swelling; this has caused a lot of stress, anxiety and frustration and what you really need is clarity about why you are having these symptoms. You're here and also struggle with uncontrolled blood sugars or blood pressure and you're confused with what to do with diet for sugar, blood pressure and CKD and how to make it all work. I'm here to say, you're not alone.
Jessica Lee Reader
Nutritionist/Dietitian, CMNT, CNTP, NBC-HWC, YT
Verified Verified
3 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29615
Feeling overwhelmed by digestive discomfort, weight concerns, or stress around food? Conflicting health advice can leave you frustrated and unsure of where to turn. You want a solution that not only addresses your immediate challenges but also fosters a healthier relationship with food—and I’m here to help. My Gut Health Reset Program tackles the root causes of digestive symptoms and promotes a sustainable lifestyle. I offer personalized guidance, customized meal plans, mindful eating strategies, and self-care practices to enhance digestion, help you achieve your wellness goals, and cultivate a lifestyle you love.
Feeling overwhelmed by digestive discomfort, weight concerns, or stress around food? Conflicting health advice can leave you frustrated and unsure of where to turn. You want a solution that not only addresses your immediate challenges but also fosters a healthier relationship with food—and I’m here to help. My Gut Health Reset Program tackles the root causes of digestive symptoms and promotes a sustainable lifestyle. I offer personalized guidance, customized meal plans, mindful eating strategies, and self-care practices to enhance digestion, help you achieve your wellness goals, and cultivate a lifestyle you love.
Courtney Lee
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CLT, CFCS
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Duncan, SC 29334 (Online Only)
Are digestive issues controlling your life? Is the fear of needing the next restroom calling the shots? Are you worried about something in your child’s diet causing inflammation but are unsure where to start? Does you have eczema or chronic sinus infections and you can’t figure out why? Do you have persistent acid reflux, GERD, Crohn’s, or IBS that doesn’t improve with medications? If you're dealing with debilitating inflammation, you could get your life back with changing your diet—not multiple surgeries, not life-long medications. Let’s work together to get to the root cause and use your diet to heal your body.
Are digestive issues controlling your life? Is the fear of needing the next restroom calling the shots? Are you worried about something in your child’s diet causing inflammation but are unsure where to start? Does you have eczema or chronic sinus infections and you can’t figure out why? Do you have persistent acid reflux, GERD, Crohn’s, or IBS that doesn’t improve with medications? If you're dealing with debilitating inflammation, you could get your life back with changing your diet—not multiple surgeries, not life-long medications. Let’s work together to get to the root cause and use your diet to heal your body.
Can see clients in NC, SC, GA, and FL. With a Bachelor's degree from Johnson & Wales University in Culinary Nutrition, I works mainly with eating disorder clients and I've set out to help people heal their relationship with food. I have seen first-hand how the diet industry has affected so many’s views of food. I also have experience in helping clients with diabetes, gut health, cancer, and picky-eaters picky-eaters in individual and group settings of all age groups. Whether I am 1:1 counseling you, group coaching, or teaching you how to cook, I am excited to help you fall in love with nourishing your body!
Can see clients in NC, SC, GA, and FL. With a Bachelor's degree from Johnson & Wales University in Culinary Nutrition, I works mainly with eating disorder clients and I've set out to help people heal their relationship with food. I have seen first-hand how the diet industry has affected so many’s views of food. I also have experience in helping clients with diabetes, gut health, cancer, and picky-eaters picky-eaters in individual and group settings of all age groups. Whether I am 1:1 counseling you, group coaching, or teaching you how to cook, I am excited to help you fall in love with nourishing your body!
FAQs - About Nutritionists and Dietitians
How can I find a dietitian or nutritionist in Columbia?
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.