Nutritionists and Dietitians in South Carolina

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Photo of Elaina P Efird - Efird Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CSSD, CEDS-S
Efird Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CSSD, CEDS-S
Online Only
At Efird Nutrition, we are a virtual nutrition practice committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to adolescents and adults navigating eating disorders and disordered eating. Our team of registered dietitians is licensed in South Carolina, Vermont, Ohio, Maryland, North Carolina, Alabama, Florida, and Georgia, allowing us to support clients across a wide regional footprint through secure, virtual sessions.
At Efird Nutrition, we are a virtual nutrition practice committed to providing compassionate, evidence-based care to adolescents and adults navigating eating disorders and disordered eating. Our team of registered dietitians is licensed in South Carolina, Vermont, Ohio, Maryland, North Carolina, Alabama, Florida, and Georgia, allowing us to support clients across a wide regional footprint through secure, virtual sessions.
(864) 952-8803 View (864) 952-8803
Photo of Cynthia F Catts, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD
Cynthia F Catts
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LD
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 Jessica Lee Reader, Nutritionist/Dietitian, CMNT, CNTP, NBC-HWC, YT
Jessica Lee Reader
Nutritionist/Dietitian, CMNT, CNTP, NBC-HWC, YT
2 Endorsed
Greenville, SC 29615
If you’re a woman 40+ feeling exhausted, gaining weight, and unsure what to eat anymore, you’re not alone. Many women I work with are navigating perimenopause and menopause, which can affect metabolism, energy, sleep, and mood in ways that feel frustrating and confusing. I help women feel better through practical nutrition guidance, simple routines, and yoga for body and mind, so you can stop guessing and start feeling steadier.
If you’re a woman 40+ feeling exhausted, gaining weight, and unsure what to eat anymore, you’re not alone. Many women I work with are navigating perimenopause and menopause, which can affect metabolism, energy, sleep, and mood in ways that feel frustrating and confusing. I help women feel better through practical nutrition guidance, simple routines, and yoga for body and mind, so you can stop guessing and start feeling steadier.
(864) 651-1545 View (864) 651-1545
Photo of Jennifer Hunt, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
Jennifer Hunt
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
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 Erin Ogden - Paradigm Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MDA, RDN, LD
Paradigm Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MDA, RDN, LD
Online Only
Through personalized support, evidence-based guidance, and compassionate care, we provide a fresh perspective on nutrition and empower clients to nourish their bodies in a way that promotes joy, fulfillment, and wellness. We balance evidenced-based nutrition information with intuitive and mindful eating principles. While it's important to be aware of nutrition science and eat a balanced diet, it's equally, if not more important to have a healthy and positive relationship with food. We work on improving that relationship with food while finding a pattern of eating that incorporates balance, moderation and joy.
Through personalized support, evidence-based guidance, and compassionate care, we provide a fresh perspective on nutrition and empower clients to nourish their bodies in a way that promotes joy, fulfillment, and wellness. We balance evidenced-based nutrition information with intuitive and mindful eating principles. While it's important to be aware of nutrition science and eat a balanced diet, it's equally, if not more important to have a healthy and positive relationship with food. We work on improving that relationship with food while finding a pattern of eating that incorporates balance, moderation and joy.
(843) 977-3567 View (843) 977-3567
Photo of Taryn Mattern (Hormone + Gut Health Dietitian), Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Taryn Mattern (Hormone + Gut Health Dietitian)
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Greenville, SC 29601
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?
(864) 514-5761 View (864) 514-5761
Photo of Alexia Beauregard, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CSP, LD
Alexia Beauregard
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CSP, LD
3 Endorsed
Charleston, SC 29401
My ideal client is an individual or parent seeking to learn more about their food allergy diagnosis, diagnosis related to abnormal gut function. If they have an eating disorder, they are ready to learn how to move past it and repair their relationship with themselves and their food. My clients understand that slow changes are lasting changes are not interested in a quick fix. They are comfortable with my approach that all foods can fit into the eating pattern and health looks a lot of different ways.
My ideal client is an individual or parent seeking to learn more about their food allergy diagnosis, diagnosis related to abnormal gut function. If they have an eating disorder, they are ready to learn how to move past it and repair their relationship with themselves and their food. My clients understand that slow changes are lasting changes are not interested in a quick fix. They are comfortable with my approach that all foods can fit into the eating pattern and health looks a lot of different ways.
(508) 469-5018 View (508) 469-5018
Photo of Suzanne Figliola, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
Suzanne Figliola
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
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 Jacquelyn Sharp Womble - Living Sharp, LLC - Fitness, Nutrition & Wellbeing, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD, ACSM-EP, CLT
Living Sharp, LLC - Fitness, Nutrition & Wellbeing
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD, ACSM-EP, CLT
1 Endorsed
Fort Mill, SC 29715
Clients I see are looking for support, guidance and education around how they can make healthy choices in their daily lives. I am here to help navigate in this diet culture we live in and to educate my clients on evidence-based nutrition behaviors to empower them to make ever-lasting changes. I take a non-disruptive educational approach to help my clients work on small habits leading to true behavior change. We work on weight management, sports nutrition, food sensitivities, and general healthy eating and lifestyle.
Clients I see are looking for support, guidance and education around how they can make healthy choices in their daily lives. I am here to help navigate in this diet culture we live in and to educate my clients on evidence-based nutrition behaviors to empower them to make ever-lasting changes. I take a non-disruptive educational approach to help my clients work on small habits leading to true behavior change. We work on weight management, sports nutrition, food sensitivities, and general healthy eating and lifestyle.
(803) 258-6691 View (803) 258-6691
Photo of Curtis Aaron Hinterberger-Korn, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD
Curtis Aaron Hinterberger-Korn
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD
Online Only
If you're someone who feels stuck with their weight despite genuinely trying to “do the right things.” They’re tired of dieting, confused by conflicting nutrition advice, and frustrated that past efforts haven’t lasted. They want sustainable weight loss without extremes, better energy, and confidence around food. Their goal isn’t just a lower number on the scale, but to feel healthier, more in control, and able to live life without constantly thinking about food or weight.
If you're someone who feels stuck with their weight despite genuinely trying to “do the right things.” They’re tired of dieting, confused by conflicting nutrition advice, and frustrated that past efforts haven’t lasted. They want sustainable weight loss without extremes, better energy, and confidence around food. Their goal isn’t just a lower number on the scale, but to feel healthier, more in control, and able to live life without constantly thinking about food or weight.
Photo of Lindsay Marie Ford, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, LRDN
Lindsay Marie Ford
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, LRDN
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 Alexandra Fleet - Fleet Nutrition , Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Fleet Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Online Only
Hi! I’m Alexandra Fleet, MS, RD, LDN, a Registered Dietitian passionate about helping you build a healthy, peaceful relationship with food—free from diet culture and guilt. I specialize in virtual, weight-inclusive nutrition therapy for eating disorders, disordered eating, medical nutrition therapy from birth to elderly with a specialty in pediatric nutrition.
Hi! I’m Alexandra Fleet, MS, RD, LDN, a Registered Dietitian passionate about helping you build a healthy, peaceful relationship with food—free from diet culture and guilt. I specialize in virtual, weight-inclusive nutrition therapy for eating disorders, disordered eating, medical nutrition therapy from birth to elderly with a specialty in pediatric nutrition.
(843) 891-5965 View (843) 891-5965
Photo of Brittany Jones Ms Rd Ld - Brittany Jones Nutrition, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
Brittany Jones Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
Greenville, SC 29607
Hi, I’m a Registered Dietitian with over 15 years of experience, and my private practice has been rooted in the Greenville community since 2017. My office is located on Halton Road, and being local matters—I collaborate closely with Greenville-area therapists, physicians, physical therapists, gyms, and community organizations so your nutrition care fits into your real life and healthcare team.
Hi, I’m a Registered Dietitian with over 15 years of experience, and my private practice has been rooted in the Greenville community since 2017. My office is located on Halton Road, and being local matters—I collaborate closely with Greenville-area therapists, physicians, physical therapists, gyms, and community organizations so your nutrition care fits into your real life and healthcare team.
(864) 659-2035 View (864) 659-2035
Photo of Mackenzie Harrell, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
Mackenzie Harrell
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD
1 Endorsed
Mount Pleasant, SC 29464
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 Katherine Taylor, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD , LD , CLT
Katherine Taylor
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD , LD , CLT
Greenville, SC 29607
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
Photo of Heather Smith, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CSR, LD, CLT
Heather Smith
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CSR, LD, CLT
1 Endorsed
Online Only
Every day feels like a maze of conflicting dietary advice, leaving you paralyzed with fear about worsening your condition. The thought of dialysis looms large, a specter that threatens your independence and dignity. You feel trapped, yearning for clear guidance that aligns with your health needs. Waiting is the enemy of improvement. Each day without proactive management risks further kidney decline, leading to life-altering consequences like dialysis or even a transplant. Your freedom and quality of life are at stake, and taking action now is your best defense against an irreversible future.
Every day feels like a maze of conflicting dietary advice, leaving you paralyzed with fear about worsening your condition. The thought of dialysis looms large, a specter that threatens your independence and dignity. You feel trapped, yearning for clear guidance that aligns with your health needs. Waiting is the enemy of improvement. Each day without proactive management risks further kidney decline, leading to life-altering consequences like dialysis or even a transplant. Your freedom and quality of life are at stake, and taking action now is your best defense against an irreversible future.
(843) 326-4462 View (843) 326-4462
Photo of Susanna Slukhinsky, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CSR, LD, CDN
Susanna Slukhinsky
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CSR, LD, CDN
Online Only
Hello! I’m Susanna, a Licensed Registered Dietitian with Board Certification in Kidney Nutrition. I specialize in managing chronic kidney disease (CKD) along with various other conditions. My mission is to help you maintain your kidney function, while reducing symptoms and boosting your energy. Nutrition doesn’t have to be dull or restrictive—it can be enjoyable and empowering! Let’s team up to keep your kidneys healthy and strong!
Hello! I’m Susanna, a Licensed Registered Dietitian with Board Certification in Kidney Nutrition. I specialize in managing chronic kidney disease (CKD) along with various other conditions. My mission is to help you maintain your kidney function, while reducing symptoms and boosting your energy. Nutrition doesn’t have to be dull or restrictive—it can be enjoyable and empowering! Let’s team up to keep your kidneys healthy and strong!
(843) 755-6180 View (843) 755-6180
Photo of Michael DeCaro, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Michael DeCaro
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
1 Endorsed
Columbia, SC 29201
Michael is a Registered Dietitian who loves helping his clients bridge the gap between health and lifestyle. He obtained his B.S in Food and Dietetics and his Masters in Nutrition from Appalachian State University. Michael enjoys working with a wide variety of clients, while having experience in chronic disease, healthy aging, sports performance, gut health disorders and inflammation. This passion extends to the LGBTQIA+ population and assisting those in underserved communities.
Michael is a Registered Dietitian who loves helping his clients bridge the gap between health and lifestyle. He obtained his B.S in Food and Dietetics and his Masters in Nutrition from Appalachian State University. Michael enjoys working with a wide variety of clients, while having experience in chronic disease, healthy aging, sports performance, gut health disorders and inflammation. This passion extends to the LGBTQIA+ population and assisting those in underserved communities.
(803) 515-7894 View (803) 515-7894
Photo of Courtney Lee, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CLT, CFCS
Courtney Lee
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CLT, CFCS
1 Endorsed
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.
(864) 393-6777 View (864) 393-6777
Photo of Courtney Erin Armstrong, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
Courtney Erin Armstrong
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD
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!
(803) 832-4788 View (803) 832-4788
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.