Nutritionists and Dietitians in South Carolina

View cities and counties in South Carolina
Photo of Lauren Cobb, RDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Lauren Cobb
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29607  (Online Only)
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!
(912) 875-2806 View (912) 875-2806
Photo of Jordan Bierman, RD, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Jordan Bierman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD
Verified Verified
Jo began her career at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital in 2018, helping families create easy, affordable meals. In 2021, she moved to Seattle and joined Swedish Medical Center’s Pediatric Specialty Clinic, where she worked with GI doctors to educate patients on food allergies, Celiac disease, Irritable Bowel Disease, and growth issues. In 2023, she joined the Pediatric Endocrinology Clinic at the Medical University of South Carolina, supporting children and families in managing diabetes through nutrition. She’s consistently worked with infants and children on weight gain, picky eating, and weight management.
Jo began her career at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital in 2018, helping families create easy, affordable meals. In 2021, she moved to Seattle and joined Swedish Medical Center’s Pediatric Specialty Clinic, where she worked with GI doctors to educate patients on food allergies, Celiac disease, Irritable Bowel Disease, and growth issues. In 2023, she joined the Pediatric Endocrinology Clinic at the Medical University of South Carolina, supporting children and families in managing diabetes through nutrition. She’s consistently worked with infants and children on weight gain, picky eating, and weight management.
(843) 773-5401 View (843) 773-5401
Photo of Susanna Slukhinsky, RD, CSR, LD, CDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Susanna Slukhinsky
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CSR, LD, CDN
Verified Verified
Myrtle Beach, SC 29579  (Online Only)
Hi y’all! I’m Susanna, a Licensed Registered Dietitian, and Board Certified in Kidney Nutrition. I am currently accepting new clients in New York and South Carolina. I specializing in chronic kidney disease (CKD), no matter what the cause. My goal is to help you keep the kidney function you have, and improve it where we can! Reducing symptoms, improving energy levels, and delaying the need for dialysis is my expertise. Nutrition should be fun, not boring and restrictive! Let’s work together as a team to keep those kidneys strong!
Hi y’all! I’m Susanna, a Licensed Registered Dietitian, and Board Certified in Kidney Nutrition. I am currently accepting new clients in New York and South Carolina. I specializing in chronic kidney disease (CKD), no matter what the cause. My goal is to help you keep the kidney function you have, and improve it where we can! Reducing symptoms, improving energy levels, and delaying the need for dialysis is my expertise. Nutrition should be fun, not boring and restrictive! Let’s work together as a team to keep those kidneys strong!
(843) 755-6180 View (843) 755-6180
Photo of Jennifer Hunt, RDN, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Jennifer Hunt
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29607  (Online Only)
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.
(864) 351-7157 View (864) 351-7157
Photo of Heather Smith, RDN, CSR,  LD, CLT, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Heather Smith
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CSR, LD, CLT
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Beaufort, SC 29906
If you have chronic kidney disease and know diet is important but don't know where to start, I can help! If you're struggling with digestive problems, headaches, joint pain, fatigue, or weight gain and are ready for a solution that heals your body from the inside out instead of masking symptoms, I can help! If you feel like you’ve tried everything you know and still can’t figure out what to do to feel better, I can help! I offer in-person visits at my Beaufort, SC office, as well as telehealth.
If you have chronic kidney disease and know diet is important but don't know where to start, I can help! If you're struggling with digestive problems, headaches, joint pain, fatigue, or weight gain and are ready for a solution that heals your body from the inside out instead of masking symptoms, I can help! If you feel like you’ve tried everything you know and still can’t figure out what to do to feel better, I can help! I offer in-person visits at my Beaufort, SC office, as well as telehealth.
(843) 326-4462 View (843) 326-4462
Photo of Cynthia F Catts, RD, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Cynthia F Catts
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD
Verified Verified
Aiken, SC 29803
Utilizing an integrative, whole body approach, I enjoy coaching intelligent, pro-active people who are interested in prevention of disease and bolstering personal wellness as opposed to treating disease. Over the course of 35 years I have worked with thousands of individuals, couples families and groups who are interested in changing their habits in the interest of changing the course of their lives. Physician (and other Practitioner) referrals are accepted but not required. I have received the Aiken Standard's Top Doc Award in 2018 and 2019 for Medical Weight Loss
Utilizing an integrative, whole body approach, I enjoy coaching intelligent, pro-active people who are interested in prevention of disease and bolstering personal wellness as opposed to treating disease. Over the course of 35 years I have worked with thousands of individuals, couples families and groups who are interested in changing their habits in the interest of changing the course of their lives. Physician (and other Practitioner) referrals are accepted but not required. I have received the Aiken Standard's Top Doc Award in 2018 and 2019 for Medical Weight Loss
(803) 443-6911 View (803) 443-6911
Photo of Lindsay Marie Ford, MS, LRDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Lindsay Marie Ford
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, LRDN
Verified Verified
Bluffton, SC 29909
People are so busy and stressed trying survive the day that damaging eating behaviors (i.e., binge-eating, restricting, chronic dieting, etc.) can sneak up and cause chaos within the mind, body and spirit. Whether it is the working mom that is done starving themselves to fit in their pre-baby jeans or the teenager navigating their sport and mental health - I can help prevent things from getting worse while guiding people to get to a more stable, healthy and enjoyable place. I am an advocate for a non-diet approach, Health at Every Size, mindful eating and balanced nutrition.
People are so busy and stressed trying survive the day that damaging eating behaviors (i.e., binge-eating, restricting, chronic dieting, etc.) can sneak up and cause chaos within the mind, body and spirit. Whether it is the working mom that is done starving themselves to fit in their pre-baby jeans or the teenager navigating their sport and mental health - I can help prevent things from getting worse while guiding people to get to a more stable, healthy and enjoyable place. I am an advocate for a non-diet approach, Health at Every Size, mindful eating and balanced nutrition.
(843) 919-4449 View (843) 919-4449
Photo of Suzanne Figliola, MS, RDN, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Suzanne Figliola
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
Verified Verified
Clemson, SC 29631
Welcome to my practice! Making food and lifestyle changes is a challenge, but one that offers great benefits in the way you feel and function each day. Nutrition therapy will help you explore ways to increase motivation, chose foods for optimal nutrition, performance and enjoyment, and manage behaviors that get in the way of achieving your goals. Now more than ever, there is an overwhelming amount of nutrition information available. Working together we will interpret and apply this information in a way that meets your personal medical, wellness and lifestyle needs.
Welcome to my practice! Making food and lifestyle changes is a challenge, but one that offers great benefits in the way you feel and function each day. Nutrition therapy will help you explore ways to increase motivation, chose foods for optimal nutrition, performance and enjoyment, and manage behaviors that get in the way of achieving your goals. Now more than ever, there is an overwhelming amount of nutrition information available. Working together we will interpret and apply this information in a way that meets your personal medical, wellness and lifestyle needs.
(864) 468-2806 View (864) 468-2806
Photo of Kate Marie Kennedy, RDN, LD, CLT, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Kate Marie Kennedy
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, CLT
Verified Verified
I have been an active Registered Dietitian and now Certified Leap Therapist for over 15 years. I have worked with a diverse group of patients from diabetes, renal, weight loss to GI Disorders. Due to COVID 19 I am available via a HIPPA compliant Telehealth so you don't even have to leave your house.
I have been an active Registered Dietitian and now Certified Leap Therapist for over 15 years. I have worked with a diverse group of patients from diabetes, renal, weight loss to GI Disorders. Due to COVID 19 I am available via a HIPPA compliant Telehealth so you don't even have to leave your house.
(843) 281-7580 View (843) 281-7580
Photo of Trina J. Hill - Tapestry Wellness Institute, MBA, RDN, CPT, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian
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!
(803) 450-4621 View (803) 450-4621
Photo of Vanessa Connolly, RDN, CSR, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian
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.
(843) 790-7162 View (843) 790-7162
Photo of Alana Walling, MS, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
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!
(561) 448-6848 View (561) 448-6848
Photo of Abbie Hebron, MS, RD, CSP, LD, CNSC, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Abbie Hebron
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CSP, LD, CNSC
Verified Verified
I am a Registered Dietitian and Certified Specialist in Pediatric Nutrition, specializing in picky eating, GI issues, food sensitivities/allergies, and nutrition support. My goal is to help families by offering tailored guidance and setting achievable goals that improve mealtime behavior and overall health.
I am a Registered Dietitian and Certified Specialist in Pediatric Nutrition, specializing in picky eating, GI issues, food sensitivities/allergies, and nutrition support. My goal is to help families by offering tailored guidance and setting achievable goals that improve mealtime behavior and overall health.
(843) 484-5955 View (843) 484-5955
Photo of Courtney Lee, MS, RDN, CLT, CFCS, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Courtney Lee
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CLT, CFCS
Verified Verified
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.
(423) 401-9617 View (423) 401-9617
Photo of Gabrielle McGrath, MS, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Gabrielle McGrath
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Verified Verified
Virtual Dietitian nutrition coaching program helping you drop dieting and excess weight while gaining freedom, energy and confidence by unlearning behaviors, embodying new habits, nourishing your body through a simple method, resetting your metabolism and balancing hormones.I can’t wait to help you achieve your goals and never worry about weight loss again.
Virtual Dietitian nutrition coaching program helping you drop dieting and excess weight while gaining freedom, energy and confidence by unlearning behaviors, embodying new habits, nourishing your body through a simple method, resetting your metabolism and balancing hormones.I can’t wait to help you achieve your goals and never worry about weight loss again.
(617) 819-0959 View (617) 819-0959
Photo of Cami L Bremer, MPHRD, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Cami L Bremer
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPHRD
Verified Verified
Florence, SC 29501
I am a Registered Dietitian and Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist. I have practiced as a dietitian for over 25 years and I have a passion for helping people understand the importance of blood sugar control and using tools and resources to help them meet their health care goals. I can provide a vital bridge between the diagnosis of diabetes and the knowledge and support they need to manage it. My service are available virtually and on a private pay basis through Palmetto Nutrition Therapy. I am available to see patients with Diabetes, Prediabetes PCOS and Chronic Kidney Disease
I am a Registered Dietitian and Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist. I have practiced as a dietitian for over 25 years and I have a passion for helping people understand the importance of blood sugar control and using tools and resources to help them meet their health care goals. I can provide a vital bridge between the diagnosis of diabetes and the knowledge and support they need to manage it. My service are available virtually and on a private pay basis through Palmetto Nutrition Therapy. I am available to see patients with Diabetes, Prediabetes PCOS and Chronic Kidney Disease
(843) 351-1944 View (843) 351-1944
Photo of Mackenzie Harrell, RDN, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Mackenzie Harrell
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
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.
(843) 905-3754 View (843) 905-3754
Photo of Jessica Lee Reader, CMNT, CNTP, NBC-HWC, YT, Nutritionist/Dietitian
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.
(864) 651-1545 View (864) 651-1545
Photo of Kristen Ziesmer, MS, RDN, CSSD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Kristen Ziesmer
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CSSD, LDN
Verified Verified
Taylors, SC 29687
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.
(803) 349-4172 View (803) 349-4172
Photo of Katherine Taylor, RD , LD , CLT, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Katherine Taylor
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD , LD , CLT
Verified Verified
Greenville, SC 29611
With over 30 years of experience as a dietitian, I have seen hundreds of clients that are frustrated with feeling bad but haven't been successful in determining the best route to health for themselves. HIgh stress, whether it be emotional, physical or dietary, is tolerated by the body for a while but usually results in a tipping point that manifests itself in food sensitivities, gut issues, malabsorption, chronic fatigue , fibromyalgia and other auto immune disorders. Helping my clients determine the foundational needs to begin the restoration process with requires proper assessment , testing and a practitioner to assist and support through this journey. I am passionate about helping my clients find hope again and to empower them to establish healthy habits for lifelong vitality. Each client's story and needs are different which requires an individualized approach with both testing and nutrition and lifestyle plan.
With over 30 years of experience as a dietitian, I have seen hundreds of clients that are frustrated with feeling bad but haven't been successful in determining the best route to health for themselves. HIgh stress, whether it be emotional, physical or dietary, is tolerated by the body for a while but usually results in a tipping point that manifests itself in food sensitivities, gut issues, malabsorption, chronic fatigue , fibromyalgia and other auto immune disorders. Helping my clients determine the foundational needs to begin the restoration process with requires proper assessment , testing and a practitioner to assist and support through this journey. I am passionate about helping my clients find hope again and to empower them to establish healthy habits for lifelong vitality. Each client's story and needs are different which requires an individualized approach with both testing and nutrition and lifestyle plan.
(864) 920-1335 View (864) 920-1335
1
FAQs - About Nutritionists and Dietitians

How can I find a dietitian or nutritionist in South Carolina?

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.