Nutritionists and Dietitians near Falls Church, VA
![Photo of Megan Michel Smith, RDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/22fe12ca-c9b3-4508-8951-d323b4e7b5e7/1/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Registered Dietitian who believes we are each unique beings with individualized circumstances and needs. My aim is to help my clients create a customized and realistic lifestyle plan to tackle their health and wellness goals. Compassion, diversity & inclusion, and environmental awareness are priorities that guide my practices as a professional. A patient-centered plan of care is at the heart of my approach.
I am a Registered Dietitian who believes we are each unique beings with individualized circumstances and needs. My aim is to help my clients create a customized and realistic lifestyle plan to tackle their health and wellness goals. Compassion, diversity & inclusion, and environmental awareness are priorities that guide my practices as a professional. A patient-centered plan of care is at the heart of my approach.
![Photo of Alison Neov, RD, CSG, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/1e767a83-3d05-4d45-8157-b4c78284a052/1/320x400.jpeg)
As a registered dietitian with over 10 years of experience and a board certified specialist in gerontological nutrition, I have dedicated my career to helping older adults achieve optimal health and wellness. With a passion for real food and a focus on personalized nutrition, I empower my clients to manage their blood sugar, lose weight, gain weight, and minimize gastrointestinal issues. My expertise in gerontological nutrition allows me to tailor my approach to the unique needs of older adults.
As a registered dietitian with over 10 years of experience and a board certified specialist in gerontological nutrition, I have dedicated my career to helping older adults achieve optimal health and wellness. With a passion for real food and a focus on personalized nutrition, I empower my clients to manage their blood sugar, lose weight, gain weight, and minimize gastrointestinal issues. My expertise in gerontological nutrition allows me to tailor my approach to the unique needs of older adults.
![Photo of Dr. Susan Macey - Center for Counseling Families, PhD, LPC, CNC, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/db6fa5b4-88ff-448a-a9d3-b35732719b12/1/320x400.jpeg)
Center for Counseling Families
Nutritionist/Dietitian, PhD, LPC, CNC
Verified Verified
Falls Church, VA 22046
The Center for Counseling Families specializes in individuals, children, couples, and families. We offer a variety of specialties that include weight loss support, bariatric therapy, surgical evaluations, trauma-informed hypnotherapy, and immigration evaluations. The therapists that work at the center are offering in-person and video conferencing sessions. If you are struggling with life's challenges, family relations, bulling, or weight loss (to name a few) you have come to the right place. We are here to help you live your best life.
The Center for Counseling Families specializes in individuals, children, couples, and families. We offer a variety of specialties that include weight loss support, bariatric therapy, surgical evaluations, trauma-informed hypnotherapy, and immigration evaluations. The therapists that work at the center are offering in-person and video conferencing sessions. If you are struggling with life's challenges, family relations, bulling, or weight loss (to name a few) you have come to the right place. We are here to help you live your best life.
![Photo of Shelby Santin, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/25cfe70a-68ac-4673-8b7b-0c51a49e4226/2/320x400.png)
I am a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist and Registered Dietitian. My goal is to act as a guide as you reclaim your relationship with food by letting go of a restrictive diet mentality and relearning how to trust your body.
I am a Certified Eating Disorder Specialist and Registered Dietitian. My goal is to act as a guide as you reclaim your relationship with food by letting go of a restrictive diet mentality and relearning how to trust your body.
![Photo of Jenna Gorlick Albert, MPH, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/77308f34-63d2-4e96-ae63-384362601621/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jenna Gorlick Albert
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN
Verified Verified
Falls Church, VA 22042 (Online Only)
My name is Jenna Albert and I am a Registered Dietitian specializing in the treatment of eating disorders and disordered eating. I use an intuitive eating framework and a Health At Every Size (R) approach to meet my clients where they are and honor their unique journeys. I’d love to work with you in exploring where your ideas about food, nutrition, and bodies come from so you can turn down the noise of diet culture and tune into your body's internal cues.
My name is Jenna Albert and I am a Registered Dietitian specializing in the treatment of eating disorders and disordered eating. I use an intuitive eating framework and a Health At Every Size (R) approach to meet my clients where they are and honor their unique journeys. I’d love to work with you in exploring where your ideas about food, nutrition, and bodies come from so you can turn down the noise of diet culture and tune into your body's internal cues.
![Photo of Emily Pietsch, MS, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/88aea021-1715-43df-a09e-f4807d973668/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you struggle knowing what and/or how much your body needs? Are you frustrated by your eating and/or your current weight? Are you ready to break free of restrictive diets? If so, you are in the right place! My goal is to help you understand the importance of fueling your body for workouts and everyday life. I want you to feel confident in your choices while enjoying all the foods you eat. Because at the end of the day, food is so much more than fuel. I work with you to help you accomplish your goals without restriction or dieting.
Do you struggle knowing what and/or how much your body needs? Are you frustrated by your eating and/or your current weight? Are you ready to break free of restrictive diets? If so, you are in the right place! My goal is to help you understand the importance of fueling your body for workouts and everyday life. I want you to feel confident in your choices while enjoying all the foods you eat. Because at the end of the day, food is so much more than fuel. I work with you to help you accomplish your goals without restriction or dieting.
![Photo of Mercedes Laudano, MS, RD, CNSC, CCTD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/e6657449-0f1c-4712-8b18-fddfeb935456/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a Registered Dietitian in Northern Virginia, licensed in Washington, D.C. and Maryland. I am also a Certified Clinical Transplant Dietitian and has spent the last 10 years specializing in Renal Nutrition at MedStar Georgetown Transplant Institute in Washington, D.C. As an advanced practitioner in the nutrition care of kidney transplant candidates and recipients, my focus has been educating and preparing patients meet the nutritional requirements for transplant. My experience is from a variety of settings, including dialysis centers, community nutrition, clinical and organ transplant.
I am a Registered Dietitian in Northern Virginia, licensed in Washington, D.C. and Maryland. I am also a Certified Clinical Transplant Dietitian and has spent the last 10 years specializing in Renal Nutrition at MedStar Georgetown Transplant Institute in Washington, D.C. As an advanced practitioner in the nutrition care of kidney transplant candidates and recipients, my focus has been educating and preparing patients meet the nutritional requirements for transplant. My experience is from a variety of settings, including dialysis centers, community nutrition, clinical and organ transplant.
![Photo of Deanna Busteed, MS, RD, CSSD, RYT-200, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/59e7744e-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I am a registered dietitian with a board certification in Sports Nutrition. I presently see clients via a virtual telehealth platform, Healthie. I have over 23 years of experience developing Wellness programs and providing cutting-edge nutrition, fitness and wellness services to a wide variety of individuals and groups. My specialties include health promotion, weight management, sports nutrition, wellness and fitness. I have experience working with vegetarian diets, celiac disease and eating disorders. I graduated from University of Rhode Island and obtained my Master of Science degree in Nutritional Sciences from UMASS Amherst.
I am a registered dietitian with a board certification in Sports Nutrition. I presently see clients via a virtual telehealth platform, Healthie. I have over 23 years of experience developing Wellness programs and providing cutting-edge nutrition, fitness and wellness services to a wide variety of individuals and groups. My specialties include health promotion, weight management, sports nutrition, wellness and fitness. I have experience working with vegetarian diets, celiac disease and eating disorders. I graduated from University of Rhode Island and obtained my Master of Science degree in Nutritional Sciences from UMASS Amherst.
![Photo of Maryam Dadkhah, PhD, RDN, LDN, CPT, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/58d39a1a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
If you would like to manage your weight, eat healthfully, work on digestive issues, control your blood pressure, reduce your blood sugar, or bring down your cholesterol, I am here to help! I am a Board Certified Specialist in Obesity and Weight Management and Certified Diabetes Educator. I would like to listen to your story, learn more about your concern, and customize a plan that fits your needs and lifestyle.
If you would like to manage your weight, eat healthfully, work on digestive issues, control your blood pressure, reduce your blood sugar, or bring down your cholesterol, I am here to help! I am a Board Certified Specialist in Obesity and Weight Management and Certified Diabetes Educator. I would like to listen to your story, learn more about your concern, and customize a plan that fits your needs and lifestyle.
I treat each person in a holistic manner balancing mind, body and spirit for optimum health. I am dedicated to finding the best wellness approach uniquely suited to each individual's needs to make lasting health changes for eating disorders, IBS, Diabetes, Fibromyalgia, migraines, gastrointestinal issues, autoimmune disease, cardiovascular health, Hypertension, high cholesterol, sports nutrition and weight management issues.
I treat each person in a holistic manner balancing mind, body and spirit for optimum health. I am dedicated to finding the best wellness approach uniquely suited to each individual's needs to make lasting health changes for eating disorders, IBS, Diabetes, Fibromyalgia, migraines, gastrointestinal issues, autoimmune disease, cardiovascular health, Hypertension, high cholesterol, sports nutrition and weight management issues.
![Photo of Katrina Crichton, MS, RD, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/5a5a6517-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
I believe food does so much more than fuel our bodies. Eating brings families together, creates memories, tells stories, and adds to our experiences in life. For many people, food can hold a lot of power and can be a significant source of fear, stress, and anxiety. I strive to empower my clients to rediscover enjoyment in eating by helping them improve their relationship with food and their body.
I believe food does so much more than fuel our bodies. Eating brings families together, creates memories, tells stories, and adds to our experiences in life. For many people, food can hold a lot of power and can be a significant source of fear, stress, and anxiety. I strive to empower my clients to rediscover enjoyment in eating by helping them improve their relationship with food and their body.
![Photo of Joanna Pustilnik - Bodacious Nutrition LLC, MS, RDN, CDCES, CIEC, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/f125daf0-2767-47ad-934e-25fc2a317533/3/320x400.jpeg)
Bodacious Nutrition LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDCES, CIEC
Verified Verified
Falls Church, VA 22040
At Bodacious Nutrition (Nutrition for Women), Joanna specializes in supporting women who struggle with food and body anxiety, unwanted symptoms of PCOS or perimenopause/menopause, disordered eating/eating disorders, and unwanted weight gain, blood sugar issues, low energy, or a sense of disrupted embodiment where body trust is difficult. She is an expert in women's and metabolic health as well as primarily plant-based eating. She helps women on Ozempic, Wegovy, or other weight loss drugs maintain body attunement and a positive relationship with food. Her approach is holistic. Sessions are collaborative, empowering, and virtual.
At Bodacious Nutrition (Nutrition for Women), Joanna specializes in supporting women who struggle with food and body anxiety, unwanted symptoms of PCOS or perimenopause/menopause, disordered eating/eating disorders, and unwanted weight gain, blood sugar issues, low energy, or a sense of disrupted embodiment where body trust is difficult. She is an expert in women's and metabolic health as well as primarily plant-based eating. She helps women on Ozempic, Wegovy, or other weight loss drugs maintain body attunement and a positive relationship with food. Her approach is holistic. Sessions are collaborative, empowering, and virtual.
![Photo of Samantha Smith, RDN, CPT, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/11932a6d-5076-4680-b130-6e91d4f09ede/2/320x400.png)
Samantha is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who obtained her bachelors degree in Nutritional Sciences from The Pennsylvania State University. Then she went on to complete her Dietetic Internship with Virginia Tech. Samantha prioritizes her patients health goals first and foremost. She is especially passionate about helping clients with sustainable weight management (weight gain or weight loss). As well as helping clients navigate nutrition with GI issues, skin issues, and diabetes management.
Samantha is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist who obtained her bachelors degree in Nutritional Sciences from The Pennsylvania State University. Then she went on to complete her Dietetic Internship with Virginia Tech. Samantha prioritizes her patients health goals first and foremost. She is especially passionate about helping clients with sustainable weight management (weight gain or weight loss). As well as helping clients navigate nutrition with GI issues, skin issues, and diabetes management.
![Photo of Jennifer Huelskamp, MS, CNS, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/3f212901-79f4-4247-9fd2-752cfd881a16/2/320x400.jpeg)
Jennifer Huelskamp
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
McLean, VA 22101 (Online Only)
I am a Certified Nutrition Specialist and health coach on a mission to empower individuals to achieve their health goals. As a health coach, I provide the motivation and strategies to make positive lifestyle changes. Pair that with my expertise as a nutritionist, where I craft personalized plans for your unique needs. Together, we'll conquer your health goals, whether you’re looking to boost energy, enhance longevity, or address specific health concerns. Let's embark on a journey to nourish your body, enhance your well-being, and cultivate a sustainable, healthy lifestyle together.
I am a Certified Nutrition Specialist and health coach on a mission to empower individuals to achieve their health goals. As a health coach, I provide the motivation and strategies to make positive lifestyle changes. Pair that with my expertise as a nutritionist, where I craft personalized plans for your unique needs. Together, we'll conquer your health goals, whether you’re looking to boost energy, enhance longevity, or address specific health concerns. Let's embark on a journey to nourish your body, enhance your well-being, and cultivate a sustainable, healthy lifestyle together.
![Photo of Saadat Aimaq - NutriHealth MNT, RDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/80b8610b-1e38-4998-9390-f7bb9746b8ee/2/320x400.jpeg)
Welcome to NutriHealth Medical Nutrition Therapy. My name is Saadat Aimaq and I am a Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist. My areas of expertise include diabetes education, heart healthy nutrition, high blood pressure, general healthy eating, Preemie nutrition, prenatal and tube feeding nutrition.
Welcome to NutriHealth Medical Nutrition Therapy. My name is Saadat Aimaq and I am a Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist. My areas of expertise include diabetes education, heart healthy nutrition, high blood pressure, general healthy eating, Preemie nutrition, prenatal and tube feeding nutrition.
![Photo of Amanda Diede, MPH, RDN, CD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/3620b35d-e4c5-4ffe-b24d-5723b0d6e6bb/1/320x400.jpeg)
Amanda Diede is a master's level Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with 8+ years experience working with eating disorders. She is truly passionate about this work and believes recovery from an eating disorder is possible for everyone. Amanda specializes in eating disorders, disordered eating, female athlete triad, chronic dieting, intuitive eating, mindful eating, hypothalamic amenorrhea, and mood & anxiety disorders.
Amanda Diede is a master's level Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with 8+ years experience working with eating disorders. She is truly passionate about this work and believes recovery from an eating disorder is possible for everyone. Amanda specializes in eating disorders, disordered eating, female athlete triad, chronic dieting, intuitive eating, mindful eating, hypothalamic amenorrhea, and mood & anxiety disorders.
![Photo of Michelle K. Berman, MS, RD, LD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/59df8525-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Michelle K. Berman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD
Verified Verified
Arlington, VA 22207 (Online Only)
Finding a dietitian who can personalize a program for your needs, and empower you to make healthier dietary lifestyle choices is a big decision. The benefits of this journey are oftentimes the greatest gift you can give yourself or to someone you love. My role is to help educate, guide, coach, and support you so that you can achieve your goals. I’ve had the privilege of working in this profession for many years, and feel a deep connection to my work and the clients I serve. Major Areas of Specialization: Pediatric Nutrition, Clinical Adult Nutrition, Weight Management, Eating Disorders, Food Allergies, High Cholesterol.
Finding a dietitian who can personalize a program for your needs, and empower you to make healthier dietary lifestyle choices is a big decision. The benefits of this journey are oftentimes the greatest gift you can give yourself or to someone you love. My role is to help educate, guide, coach, and support you so that you can achieve your goals. I’ve had the privilege of working in this profession for many years, and feel a deep connection to my work and the clients I serve. Major Areas of Specialization: Pediatric Nutrition, Clinical Adult Nutrition, Weight Management, Eating Disorders, Food Allergies, High Cholesterol.
![Photo of Nicole Brown, MS, RDN, LD, ACSM, EP, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/59106426-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Nicole Brown
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LD, ACSM, EP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Annandale, VA 22003
I look forward to assisting you in achieving your health promotion goals which may include: weight management (losing, gaining, maintaining), reducing blood pressure or cholesterol and preventing or treating diabetes. If sports nutrition is your focus, I will measure your resting metabolic rate, do a fitness assessment, and write an exercise prescription. My clients are ready to make incremental changes and learn how to sustain them. Recommendations are individualized and include what food choices, vitamin and mineral supplementation, and what types and amounts of physical activity will help you optimize your health.
I look forward to assisting you in achieving your health promotion goals which may include: weight management (losing, gaining, maintaining), reducing blood pressure or cholesterol and preventing or treating diabetes. If sports nutrition is your focus, I will measure your resting metabolic rate, do a fitness assessment, and write an exercise prescription. My clients are ready to make incremental changes and learn how to sustain them. Recommendations are individualized and include what food choices, vitamin and mineral supplementation, and what types and amounts of physical activity will help you optimize your health.
![Photo of Brittany Shapiro, RD, LD, CNSC, CSP, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/59f4cebb-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Brittany has extensive experience working in the field of pediatric nutrition. She received her B.S. in dietetics, with a minor in Spanish, from the University of Maryland. Brittany then went on to complete her dietetic internship from the National Institutes of Health, focusing on providing medical nutrition therapy to the pediatric population. She has served as a pediatric dietitian at Children's National Medical Center in Washington, DC for many years. Brittany is available to see pediatric patients in the DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia area!
Brittany has extensive experience working in the field of pediatric nutrition. She received her B.S. in dietetics, with a minor in Spanish, from the University of Maryland. Brittany then went on to complete her dietetic internship from the National Institutes of Health, focusing on providing medical nutrition therapy to the pediatric population. She has served as a pediatric dietitian at Children's National Medical Center in Washington, DC for many years. Brittany is available to see pediatric patients in the DC, Maryland, and Northern Virginia area!
![Photo of Mike Gannon - Fit For Success, BS, CPT, CSCS, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/590c8ec9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
My ideal client is one who is committed and passionate about improving their body and mind. If your purpose is any one of the following objectives: to lose weight, increase strength and muscle tone, transform your body, create supportive habits, improve your health or simply look and feel better about yourself, your purpose becomes my commitment to you. Each training period is devoted to bringing you closer to your desired outcome. Together with consistency and perseverance, we ultimately succeed and become fit for success.
My ideal client is one who is committed and passionate about improving their body and mind. If your purpose is any one of the following objectives: to lose weight, increase strength and muscle tone, transform your body, create supportive habits, improve your health or simply look and feel better about yourself, your purpose becomes my commitment to you. Each training period is devoted to bringing you closer to your desired outcome. Together with consistency and perseverance, we ultimately succeed and become fit for success.
FAQs - About Nutritionists and Dietitians
How can I find a dietitian or nutritionist in Falls Church?
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.