Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) Nutritionists and Dietitians in University Place, WA

Photo of Dr. Jennifer Champion, Nutritionist/Dietitian, DCN, CNS, CN, LDN, BCH
Dr. Jennifer Champion
Nutritionist/Dietitian, DCN, CNS, CN, LDN, BCH
University Place, WA 98466
Have you ever been told you’ll just have to “live with it”? That feeling of defeat can be heavy—but what if it didn’t have to be? Imagine feeling empowered, knowing you have an ally on your health journey—someone who listens, holds space, and keeps you accountable to the changes you want to make. Together, we begin with the foundation of nutrition, sleep, movement, and self-care—building a path toward lasting wellness. You’re not alone. You’re supported, seen, and encouraged to reclaim your health—because you deserve to feel better.
Have you ever been told you’ll just have to “live with it”? That feeling of defeat can be heavy—but what if it didn’t have to be? Imagine feeling empowered, knowing you have an ally on your health journey—someone who listens, holds space, and keeps you accountable to the changes you want to make. Together, we begin with the foundation of nutrition, sleep, movement, and self-care—building a path toward lasting wellness. You’re not alone. You’re supported, seen, and encouraged to reclaim your health—because you deserve to feel better.
(253) 303-5985 View (253) 303-5985
Photo of Genesis Pierre, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Genesis Pierre
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
University Place, WA 98466
Struggling with gut issues, fatigue, PCOS, hormone imbalances, Hashimoto’s, or an eating disorder? You don’t have to stay stuck or keep guessing. I specialize in root-cause, personalized nutrition—starting with the basics and gradually building step by step to support and strengthen your whole self. Together we’ll balance hormones, heal your gut, reduce inflammation, and restore lasting energy. From bloat to burnout, cravings to confidence, I’ll guide you with clarity, compassion, and evidence-based care. Take charge of your health, claim your power, and step into the vibrant life you deserve—your best self is waiting!
Struggling with gut issues, fatigue, PCOS, hormone imbalances, Hashimoto’s, or an eating disorder? You don’t have to stay stuck or keep guessing. I specialize in root-cause, personalized nutrition—starting with the basics and gradually building step by step to support and strengthen your whole self. Together we’ll balance hormones, heal your gut, reduce inflammation, and restore lasting energy. From bloat to burnout, cravings to confidence, I’ll guide you with clarity, compassion, and evidence-based care. Take charge of your health, claim your power, and step into the vibrant life you deserve—your best self is waiting!
(253) 319-3828 View (253) 319-3828

More Dietitians and Nutritionists Nearby

Photo of Hannah Kirby, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CD, LDN, CEDS
Hannah Kirby
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CD, LDN, CEDS
2 Endorsed
Online Only
My goal as a dietitian is to help you cultivate a relationship with food, movement, and body image that supports your big dreams-whether that is training to climb mountains, stepping out of a dieting cycle, or feeling more at peace with your body. Much of my experience has been focused on working with adolescents and adults through eating disorder recovery at various levels of care. As an adventure seeker, I am also passionate about offering nutrition counseling to help athletes and weekend warriors crush goals in various activities and sports. I offer virtual nutrition counseling services in Washington, Tennessee, and Connecticut.
My goal as a dietitian is to help you cultivate a relationship with food, movement, and body image that supports your big dreams-whether that is training to climb mountains, stepping out of a dieting cycle, or feeling more at peace with your body. Much of my experience has been focused on working with adolescents and adults through eating disorder recovery at various levels of care. As an adventure seeker, I am also passionate about offering nutrition counseling to help athletes and weekend warriors crush goals in various activities and sports. I offer virtual nutrition counseling services in Washington, Tennessee, and Connecticut.
(865) 737-1541 View (865) 737-1541
Photo of Andrea Doria Cameron, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
Andrea Doria Cameron
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CDN
1 Endorsed
Serves Area
I have specialized in bariatrics (weight loss surgery- sleeve, bypass, lap band) for the last 5 years providing medical clearances and long term follow up to ensure lasting success.
Through 1:1 online coaching I learn about you and tailor a nutrition program that suits your needs and lifestyles. Whether you need to manage weight regain, lower blood pressure or blood sugar, or want to train for your first 5k or half marathon I provide weekly support and accountability to ensure you improve your health and quality of life.
I have specialized in bariatrics (weight loss surgery- sleeve, bypass, lap band) for the last 5 years providing medical clearances and long term follow up to ensure lasting success.
Through 1:1 online coaching I learn about you and tailor a nutrition program that suits your needs and lifestyles. Whether you need to manage weight regain, lower blood pressure or blood sugar, or want to train for your first 5k or half marathon I provide weekly support and accountability to ensure you improve your health and quality of life.
(347) 695-3810 View (347) 695-3810
Photo of Liz Wyosnick, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CD
Liz Wyosnick
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CD
Seattle, WA 98146
I seek to help a broad range of clients: those seeking to optimize their health, fitness and performance; those looking for sustainable and responsible weight loss; and individuals in need of medical nutrition therapy to help prevent or manage disease.
Liz Wyosnick MS, RDN is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with a Masters in Nutrition Science. I offer a non-dogmatic approach to health where recommendations are rooted in sustainability and science. I am particularly passionate about empowering individuals to live their life most well, in which healthy choices become what they want to do, versus what they have to do. I enjoy collaborating with my clients so that they receive thoughtful education around food, the body, and systems, as well as helpful insight within behavior change research.
I seek to help a broad range of clients: those seeking to optimize their health, fitness and performance; those looking for sustainable and responsible weight loss; and individuals in need of medical nutrition therapy to help prevent or manage disease.
Liz Wyosnick MS, RDN is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with a Masters in Nutrition Science. I offer a non-dogmatic approach to health where recommendations are rooted in sustainability and science. I am particularly passionate about empowering individuals to live their life most well, in which healthy choices become what they want to do, versus what they have to do. I enjoy collaborating with my clients so that they receive thoughtful education around food, the body, and systems, as well as helpful insight within behavior change research.
(206) 208-6966 View (206) 208-6966
Photo of Kelly Duncombe, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Kelly Duncombe
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
3 Endorsed
Serves Area
Her fascination with medical conditions drives her to continuously seek innovative ways to make a difference in the lives of those she serves and strives to empower others to make informed, healthier choices
Specialities include: Weight management, Diabetes, Heart Health, General Nutrition, Gut Health, Kidney Disease, Sports Nutrition, Women's Health (Pre/Post Natal Nutrition), Infertility Nutrition, Vegan/Vegetarian diets, PCOS, Hormonal Issues.
Her fascination with medical conditions drives her to continuously seek innovative ways to make a difference in the lives of those she serves and strives to empower others to make informed, healthier choices
Specialities include: Weight management, Diabetes, Heart Health, General Nutrition, Gut Health, Kidney Disease, Sports Nutrition, Women's Health (Pre/Post Natal Nutrition), Infertility Nutrition, Vegan/Vegetarian diets, PCOS, Hormonal Issues.
(872) 259-6187 View (872) 259-6187
Photo of Charlene Koutchak, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Charlene Koutchak
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Olympia, WA 98501
Are you tired of being told, "Just try harder" or "It's a matter of willpower?" Whether you are struggling with the backlash of chronic dieting, an eating disorder, or disordered eating, you are not alone. I partner with adults who long to feel at peace in their bodies and discover their unique needs and pattern of eating. You may have heard about Intuitive Eating or are listening to podcasts encouraging you to ditch culture, and you're ready to move away from food guilt and body shame. Sharing your story in a safe and understanding space with someone skilled is essential.
Are you tired of being told, "Just try harder" or "It's a matter of willpower?" Whether you are struggling with the backlash of chronic dieting, an eating disorder, or disordered eating, you are not alone. I partner with adults who long to feel at peace in their bodies and discover their unique needs and pattern of eating. You may have heard about Intuitive Eating or are listening to podcasts encouraging you to ditch culture, and you're ready to move away from food guilt and body shame. Sharing your story in a safe and understanding space with someone skilled is essential.
(360) 227-5095 View (360) 227-5095
Photo of Emmy Bright, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CD, LDN
Emmy Bright
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CD, LDN
Serves Area
I specialize in providing HAES-based medical nutrition therapy for chronic conditions including GI Disorders (IBS, Celiac, GERD, & many more), Thyroid Disorders, PCOS, Diabetes, Heart Health, Pregnancy, Menopause, Vegan/Vegetarian Diets, Food Allergies, and Autoimmune Conditions.
You’re the expert of your own body, and I'm here to listen and support you. My work is rooted in Intuitive Eating, so I'll help you have a healthy & balanced relationship with food by sharing non-restrictive, research-backed nutrition recommendations instead of food rules, strict diets, and questionable nutrition BS recycled from social media.
I specialize in providing HAES-based medical nutrition therapy for chronic conditions including GI Disorders (IBS, Celiac, GERD, & many more), Thyroid Disorders, PCOS, Diabetes, Heart Health, Pregnancy, Menopause, Vegan/Vegetarian Diets, Food Allergies, and Autoimmune Conditions.
You’re the expert of your own body, and I'm here to listen and support you. My work is rooted in Intuitive Eating, so I'll help you have a healthy & balanced relationship with food by sharing non-restrictive, research-backed nutrition recommendations instead of food rules, strict diets, and questionable nutrition BS recycled from social media.
(608) 535-6692 View (608) 535-6692
Photo of Paige Becker, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, CD
Paige Becker
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LD, CD
Online Only
Waitlist for new clients
Hello! I'm a Registered Dietitian who's passionate about providing individualized nutrition care that considers the whole person: mind, body, and spirit. I aim to help clients improve their relationships with food, self-care, and their bodies from a Health At Every Size (HAES) perspective. My counseling approach is based in Intuitive Eating principles and bolstered by somatics and self-compassion-focused behavior change techniques. I'm also aware of the importance of nervous system regulation for positive, sustainable behavior change, thus I'm a proponent of the healing capacity of sensory-engaging practices (like art!)
Hello! I'm a Registered Dietitian who's passionate about providing individualized nutrition care that considers the whole person: mind, body, and spirit. I aim to help clients improve their relationships with food, self-care, and their bodies from a Health At Every Size (HAES) perspective. My counseling approach is based in Intuitive Eating principles and bolstered by somatics and self-compassion-focused behavior change techniques. I'm also aware of the importance of nervous system regulation for positive, sustainable behavior change, thus I'm a proponent of the healing capacity of sensory-engaging practices (like art!)
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Photo of Julia Hollenberg, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Julia Hollenberg
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD
Serves Area
If you're feeling like you're losing a longstanding battle with your body, you're not alone. Or perhaps your constant attempts to control food ends up feeling like food is controlling you and your life. Again, you are not alone. You do not have to live a life that is limited by food rules, even if they're in the name of health. You do not have to live in constant worry about what others will think of your body. You do not have to waste the majority of your precious mental and emotional capacity ruminating on food and your body. Because: you were born for great things.
If you're feeling like you're losing a longstanding battle with your body, you're not alone. Or perhaps your constant attempts to control food ends up feeling like food is controlling you and your life. Again, you are not alone. You do not have to live a life that is limited by food rules, even if they're in the name of health. You do not have to live in constant worry about what others will think of your body. You do not have to waste the majority of your precious mental and emotional capacity ruminating on food and your body. Because: you were born for great things.
(206) 792-1073 View (206) 792-1073
Photo of Cathy Visser - True for You Nutrition, LLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, CD
True for You Nutrition, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, CD
1 Endorsed
Olympia, WA 98502
Health insurance coverage for Medical Nutrition Therapy varies from plan to plan and must be verified by client.
Hi, I’m Cathy Visser, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist here to support you on your journey to better health. Whether you’re managing a chronic condition, breaking the cycle of yo-yo dieting, or healing from an eating disorder, I’m here to help. As a certified Intuitive Eating dietitian, I’ll guide you toward a healthier relationship with food and support you as you learn to feel good in your body. I also offer personalized meal plans—online or on paper—at no extra charge. Let’s connect for a free 20-minute consultation.
Health insurance coverage for Medical Nutrition Therapy varies from plan to plan and must be verified by client.
Hi, I’m Cathy Visser, a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist here to support you on your journey to better health. Whether you’re managing a chronic condition, breaking the cycle of yo-yo dieting, or healing from an eating disorder, I’m here to help. As a certified Intuitive Eating dietitian, I’ll guide you toward a healthier relationship with food and support you as you learn to feel good in your body. I also offer personalized meal plans—online or on paper—at no extra charge. Let’s connect for a free 20-minute consultation.
(360) 515-3259 View (360) 515-3259
Photo of Kelsey Johnson - Kelsey Johnson at Ash & Birch Counseling, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MA, LMHCA, RDN, CEDS, CD
Kelsey Johnson at Ash & Birch Counseling
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MA, LMHCA, RDN, CEDS, CD
1 Endorsed
Puyallup, WA 98372
My nutritional philosophy incorporates Intuitive Eating, Health at Every Size (HAES), Body Liberation, Self-Compassion, Division of Responsibility, and Medical Nutrition Therapy.
Hi there! I'm Kelsey! I'm a non-diet Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate, and Certified Eating Disorder Specialist. I've been honored to serve adolescents and adults struggling with eating disorders in a variety of treatment settings. I am committed to helping individuals establish a peaceful relationship with food and their bodies. In addition, I support others in managing chronic illnesses while maintaining a positive connection with food.
My nutritional philosophy incorporates Intuitive Eating, Health at Every Size (HAES), Body Liberation, Self-Compassion, Division of Responsibility, and Medical Nutrition Therapy.
Hi there! I'm Kelsey! I'm a non-diet Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, Licensed Mental Health Counselor Associate, and Certified Eating Disorder Specialist. I've been honored to serve adolescents and adults struggling with eating disorders in a variety of treatment settings. I am committed to helping individuals establish a peaceful relationship with food and their bodies. In addition, I support others in managing chronic illnesses while maintaining a positive connection with food.
(253) 234-7931 View (253) 234-7931
Photo of Stephanie Sperring - Nutrition for Autoimmunity, LLC, Nutritionist/Dietitian, LD, CNS, MScN, AIP
Nutrition for Autoimmunity, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, LD, CNS, MScN, AIP
1 Endorsed
Online Only
I work with clients online all over the United Stated. My clients have autoimmune disorders, MCAS, food sensitivities, GI issues or are dealing with immune issues. I help with meal plans and coming up with lifestyle changes that work for you. Implementing these changes leads to less pain, more energy, and feeling better overall.
I work with clients online all over the United Stated. My clients have autoimmune disorders, MCAS, food sensitivities, GI issues or are dealing with immune issues. I help with meal plans and coming up with lifestyle changes that work for you. Implementing these changes leads to less pain, more energy, and feeling better overall.
(971) 315-8985 View (971) 315-8985
Photo of Kathleen Putnam, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD
Kathleen Putnam
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD
2 Endorsed
Online Only
I specialize and am committed to ongoing training in trauma informed care, behavior change, nutrition and life coaching, and medical nutrition therapy.
My mission and vision is to prevent needless suffering caused by hurtful messaging and misinformation from our culture, family, or health care system that disrupts the connection and/or enjoyment of your body, food, and eating. Shame, guilt, and stigma have no place in healthcare. I am committed to providing trauma informed care and seek to help provide tools and skills to help learn to self regulate and improve tolerance connecting the body and eating. I provide practical, realistic strategies resulting in long-term success. Stop overthinking food, hating your body, emotional eating, or regrets. I'm here to help!
I specialize and am committed to ongoing training in trauma informed care, behavior change, nutrition and life coaching, and medical nutrition therapy.
My mission and vision is to prevent needless suffering caused by hurtful messaging and misinformation from our culture, family, or health care system that disrupts the connection and/or enjoyment of your body, food, and eating. Shame, guilt, and stigma have no place in healthcare. I am committed to providing trauma informed care and seek to help provide tools and skills to help learn to self regulate and improve tolerance connecting the body and eating. I provide practical, realistic strategies resulting in long-term success. Stop overthinking food, hating your body, emotional eating, or regrets. I'm here to help!
(206) 258-8191 View (206) 258-8191
Photo of Ash Linxwiler, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RD, CD
Ash Linxwiler
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RD, CD
Tacoma, WA 98446
Hi. I'm Ash! I'm here to help make eating feel less challenging. In our sessions, I focus on understanding the complex and unique struggles each patient is experiencing and helping guide them towards sustainable and manageable solutions to last a lifetime. My approach is neuro-affirming and weight inclusive. This approach can be particularly beneficial for patients who are neurodivergent (ADHD/Autism/OCD/SPD) or struggle with disordered eating. I have experience treating patients with all manner of disease states including eating disorders, diabetes, digestive disorders, heart disease, and kidney disease.
Hi. I'm Ash! I'm here to help make eating feel less challenging. In our sessions, I focus on understanding the complex and unique struggles each patient is experiencing and helping guide them towards sustainable and manageable solutions to last a lifetime. My approach is neuro-affirming and weight inclusive. This approach can be particularly beneficial for patients who are neurodivergent (ADHD/Autism/OCD/SPD) or struggle with disordered eating. I have experience treating patients with all manner of disease states including eating disorders, diabetes, digestive disorders, heart disease, and kidney disease.
(253) 465-4975 View (253) 465-4975
Photo of Brittney Kraai - Root & Vine Integrative Health, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN, CN
Root & Vine Integrative Health
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN, CN
Serves Area
I offer in-person services at my office located inside Sweetgrass Physical Therapy in Corvallis.
You’re probably sick of the bandaid approach by now and want to get to the root-cause of your symptoms like weight gain, blood sugar concerns, PCOS, irregular cycles, or fertility struggles. You’re also probably tired of feeling like your healthcare providers barely listen in the few minutes you get with them (and send you off with a prescription). It’s frustrating to feel like nobody hears your struggle or can provide the support you know deserve. You can be helped and you can feel better - medication and being stuck in this cycle are not your only options! The good news? You’re already on the right track by seeking my help.
I offer in-person services at my office located inside Sweetgrass Physical Therapy in Corvallis.
You’re probably sick of the bandaid approach by now and want to get to the root-cause of your symptoms like weight gain, blood sugar concerns, PCOS, irregular cycles, or fertility struggles. You’re also probably tired of feeling like your healthcare providers barely listen in the few minutes you get with them (and send you off with a prescription). It’s frustrating to feel like nobody hears your struggle or can provide the support you know deserve. You can be helped and you can feel better - medication and being stuck in this cycle are not your only options! The good news? You’re already on the right track by seeking my help.
(541) 813-4440 View (541) 813-4440
Photo of Hannah Robinson - Ridgeline Nutrition; Hannah Robinson , Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CD, RDN
Ridgeline Nutrition; Hannah Robinson
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CD, RDN
Online Only
I am dedicated to providing individualized integrative nutrition therapy with a holistic lens.
I offer a integrative approach to care, considering the interconnected relationships between food patterns and habits, physical activity and movement, stress management and resilience, sleep quality and restoration as well as other lifestyle factors.
I am dedicated to providing individualized integrative nutrition therapy with a holistic lens.
I offer a integrative approach to care, considering the interconnected relationships between food patterns and habits, physical activity and movement, stress management and resilience, sleep quality and restoration as well as other lifestyle factors.
(360) 395-9757 View (360) 395-9757
Photo of Jeannie Castell, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CD
Jeannie Castell
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CD
Online Only
Hi! I'm Jeannie! I'm a Registered Dietitian with a decade of clinical experience in both medical and behavioral health. I'm passionate about bridging the gap between these often-disconnected fields. I am specialized in eating disorders and nutrition for mental health. What you eat can impact how you feel, both physically and mentally. Whether it’s balancing blood sugar to stabilize mood or healing from disordered eating, your nutrition plays a vital role. I offer an Integrative, Evidence-Based approach that takes into account your whole self—your physical health, emotional well-being, and life experiences.
Hi! I'm Jeannie! I'm a Registered Dietitian with a decade of clinical experience in both medical and behavioral health. I'm passionate about bridging the gap between these often-disconnected fields. I am specialized in eating disorders and nutrition for mental health. What you eat can impact how you feel, both physically and mentally. Whether it’s balancing blood sugar to stabilize mood or healing from disordered eating, your nutrition plays a vital role. I offer an Integrative, Evidence-Based approach that takes into account your whole self—your physical health, emotional well-being, and life experiences.
(360) 800-1772 View (360) 800-1772
Photo of Malou Aragon Nichols, Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Malou Aragon Nichols
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Seattle, WA 98101
Malou's medical nutrition therapy experience spans military and Veteran adults and families in recovery from disorganized eating or relationships with food, body.
Malou sees each individual as the expert of their lived experience and believes in their inherent wholeness. Their work is offered in deep respect for the activism and leadership of People of the Global Majority, BIPoC, Two-Spirit, fat, trans, and disabled people. She recognizes that food and body liberation movements, along with ideas like Health at Every Size, intuitive eating, or mindful eating, are not just possible, but have roots in the ancient, Indigenous worldviews of sovereignty, collective care, and relational well-being.
Malou's medical nutrition therapy experience spans military and Veteran adults and families in recovery from disorganized eating or relationships with food, body.
Malou sees each individual as the expert of their lived experience and believes in their inherent wholeness. Their work is offered in deep respect for the activism and leadership of People of the Global Majority, BIPoC, Two-Spirit, fat, trans, and disabled people. She recognizes that food and body liberation movements, along with ideas like Health at Every Size, intuitive eating, or mindful eating, are not just possible, but have roots in the ancient, Indigenous worldviews of sovereignty, collective care, and relational well-being.
(970) 442-9670 View (970) 442-9670
Photo of Ashley Bent, Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CD
Ashley Bent
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CD
Online Only
As both a Sports-, and Eating Disorders Dietitian, I've had the pleasure of helping athletes achieve personal records, recover faster, heal from injuries, and reach new levels of performance, in addition to helping people improve their relationship with food and their body as they navigate recovery from an eating disorder or disordered eating.
As both a Sports-, and Eating Disorders Dietitian, I've had the pleasure of helping athletes achieve personal records, recover faster, heal from injuries, and reach new levels of performance, in addition to helping people improve their relationship with food and their body as they navigate recovery from an eating disorder or disordered eating.
(206) 759-2366 View (206) 759-2366
Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) Nutritionists and Dietitians

What is medical nutrition therapy?

Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) involves the use of personalized dietary changes to prevent or manage chronic conditions. Typically conducted in an outpatient setting by a Registered Dietitian (RD), MNT aims to address specific health issues through tailored nutrition plans. Clients are often referred for MNT by healthcare professionals who identify conditions that could benefit from dietary and lifestyle modifications, such as diabetes, hypertension, or cardiovascular disease. The goal of MNT is to improve overall health outcomes by making adjustments to the client's diet based on their individual needs and medical conditions.

What conditions is medical nutrition therapy for?

Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) is often used for individuals with diseases caused or worsened by poor diet, such as type 2 diabetes, hypertension, kidney disease, and cardiovascular diseases. However, other conditions can also benefit from nutrition therapy. MNT is typically not intended to replace other treatments, such as medication, but rather to complement them. By improving a person's overall diet and health, MNT aims to prevent the exacerbation of symptoms and complement other treatments.

Is medical nutrition therapy covered by insurance?

Medical nutrition therapy is frequently covered by insurance. 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. While a referral is not required to see a dietitian or nutritionist, and many individuals independently seek nutritional support without prior medical advice, a referral from a primary care physician or another medical professional may be necessary to obtain coverage for medical nutrition services. 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. 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.

What does medical nutrition therapy involve?

The approach a dietitian will take in a medical nutrition therapy session will depend on a number of factors, including what conditions the client has and what the goals of the client are. An initial session often involves an assessment of the client's overall health and current dietary intake; a dietitian may also speak with a client's medical doctor prior to or following a first session to obtain information on the medical condition(s) the client is seeking nutrition therapy counseling for. The dietitian will then work with the client to create goals of medical nutrition therapy sessions, such as weight loss, eating a more plant-based diet, or reducing sodium intake. Then, in ongoing sessions, the dietitian will work with the client to meet their stated goals. These ongoing sessions often include menu planning and coaching, which involve the dietitian working with the client to develop strategies for a healthier and more balanced diet. Dietitians may suggest recipes, put together grocery shopping lists, and/or recommend tracking one's intake in order to help clients make desired changes.