![Photo of Jessica Michelle Coghill, MS, CNS, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/ccf04692-df6f-4c15-8eb8-659a08f2ebc5/2/320x400.jpeg)
90% of health conditions and diseases can be prevented by proper nutrition and lifestyle modifications. Not only does management and prevention of chronic health conditions improve the quality and satisfaction of living, it also adds years and saves money later in life. The sooner you take the steps to a healthier life, the sooner you’ll feel better, happier, more energized, and more confident about your appearance. I’m here to help you set the foundation of a more fulfilling life you can enjoy with family and friends in years to come!
90% of health conditions and diseases can be prevented by proper nutrition and lifestyle modifications. Not only does management and prevention of chronic health conditions improve the quality and satisfaction of living, it also adds years and saves money later in life. The sooner you take the steps to a healthier life, the sooner you’ll feel better, happier, more energized, and more confident about your appearance. I’m here to help you set the foundation of a more fulfilling life you can enjoy with family and friends in years to come!
![Photo of Yuchi Yang - American Nutrition Counseling, LLC, MS, RD, CD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/d53ffa50-58e3-41d0-97c7-05bd8a798671/2/320x400.jpeg)
American Nutrition Counseling, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CD
Verified Verified
Issaquah, WA 98027 (Online Only)
Yuchi Yang, MS, RD, is passionate about helping people address their nutritional questions and concerns. Many of her clients feel comfortable with her understanding etiquette and find her realistic approach motivating. Specialty areas include weight loss, food allergies, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, gastrointestinal problems, diabetes, eating disorders, vegan diet, pediatric nutrition, and healthy eating for healthy living.
Yuchi Yang, MS, RD, is passionate about helping people address their nutritional questions and concerns. Many of her clients feel comfortable with her understanding etiquette and find her realistic approach motivating. Specialty areas include weight loss, food allergies, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, gastrointestinal problems, diabetes, eating disorders, vegan diet, pediatric nutrition, and healthy eating for healthy living.
![Photo of Shelby Erin Slenkamp - KOKUA Lifestyle and Nutrition, MS, RDN, CD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/27ecb5f7-2ebe-4e16-b504-a21fd887bdb0/3/320x400.jpeg)
KOKUA Lifestyle and Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CD
Verified Verified
Snohomish, WA 98296
An impassioned self- employed private practice Health, Wellness, and Lifestyle expert with 6 years of experience working with individuals wishing to learn about or change their relationship with food and physical activity. Well versed in performing health and nutrition assessments and implementing customized lifestyle plans with a variety of health conditions and clients. Bound and committed to helping individuals achieve symptom remission and improved health through sharing knowledge, professional, and personal experience.
An impassioned self- employed private practice Health, Wellness, and Lifestyle expert with 6 years of experience working with individuals wishing to learn about or change their relationship with food and physical activity. Well versed in performing health and nutrition assessments and implementing customized lifestyle plans with a variety of health conditions and clients. Bound and committed to helping individuals achieve symptom remission and improved health through sharing knowledge, professional, and personal experience.
![Photo of Beve Kindblade - Seattle Nutrition - Beve Kindblade Consulting, MS, RDN, CD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/581317d9-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/5/320x400.jpeg)
Seattle Nutrition - Beve Kindblade Consulting
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
Experience counts! Why trust your nutritional health to just anyone? Private practice offers a unique opportunity to discuss your health and wellness goals; any medical issues; and evaluate your latest labs (or any labs needed) to see how you are digesting and absorbing nutrients from your diet and supplements. Beve will create a customized Nutrition Care Plan for you. Tired? Sleep issues? Weight changes? Let's find out "why?" Combining the best of traditional medicine with a natural health approach has been Beve's intention and purpose with clients for more than 32 years. Seattle Nutrition - the missing L-I-N-K in your healthcare.
Experience counts! Why trust your nutritional health to just anyone? Private practice offers a unique opportunity to discuss your health and wellness goals; any medical issues; and evaluate your latest labs (or any labs needed) to see how you are digesting and absorbing nutrients from your diet and supplements. Beve will create a customized Nutrition Care Plan for you. Tired? Sleep issues? Weight changes? Let's find out "why?" Combining the best of traditional medicine with a natural health approach has been Beve's intention and purpose with clients for more than 32 years. Seattle Nutrition - the missing L-I-N-K in your healthcare.
![Photo of Danielle O'Keefe, CN, LMHCA, LMT, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/5910e042-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/2/320x400.jpeg)
Danielle O'Keefe
Nutritionist/Dietitian, CN, LMHCA, LMT
Verified Verified
Mountlake Terrace, WA 98043
As an anti-diet, weight-inclusive nutritionist, I create a trusting and collaborative space to explore your relationship with food, body, and movement. With so much conflicting nutrition information in the world, often promoting restriction or ignoring what your body is telling you it needs and wants, my goal is to help you rediscover your body's inner wisdom. Diet culture and systems of oppression that tell us who we are and how we should be disconnect us from ourselves, crippling our ability to orient toward our own well-being. We may be a good fit for working together if you're looking for help:
As an anti-diet, weight-inclusive nutritionist, I create a trusting and collaborative space to explore your relationship with food, body, and movement. With so much conflicting nutrition information in the world, often promoting restriction or ignoring what your body is telling you it needs and wants, my goal is to help you rediscover your body's inner wisdom. Diet culture and systems of oppression that tell us who we are and how we should be disconnect us from ourselves, crippling our ability to orient toward our own well-being. We may be a good fit for working together if you're looking for help:
![Photo of Dr. Jennifer Champion, DCN, CNS, CN, LDN, BCH, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/a5f6b96a-19cb-466f-bb3d-4371af96c95d/2/320x400.jpeg)
Dr. Jennifer Champion
Nutritionist/Dietitian, DCN, CNS, CN, LDN, BCH
Verified Verified
University Place, WA 98466
Imagine waking up each morning feeling energized, revitalized, and ready to seize the day enthusiastically. Picture yourself radiating vitality, confidence, and joy in every aspect of your life. This isn't just a dream—it's a reality waiting for you to claim it. As your dedicated nutrition advocate, I am here to guide and support you every step of the way. Together, we'll craft a personalized plan that empowers you to make informed choices, cultivate healthier habits, and overcome obstacles. But I need your commitment, dedication, and willingness to prioritize your well-being. Just believe in your incredible potential.
Imagine waking up each morning feeling energized, revitalized, and ready to seize the day enthusiastically. Picture yourself radiating vitality, confidence, and joy in every aspect of your life. This isn't just a dream—it's a reality waiting for you to claim it. As your dedicated nutrition advocate, I am here to guide and support you every step of the way. Together, we'll craft a personalized plan that empowers you to make informed choices, cultivate healthier habits, and overcome obstacles. But I need your commitment, dedication, and willingness to prioritize your well-being. Just believe in your incredible potential.
![Photo of Paige Wetherbee Downing, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/eb25dee8-d003-4535-b055-8f83e867add7/2/320x400.jpeg)
Paige Wetherbee Downing
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Snoqualmie, WA 98065 (Online Only)
I am a registered dietitian who specializes in anorexia nervosa, binge eating disorder, bulimia, ARFID, orthorexia, and other specified feeding and eating disorders. I practice under the “Health At Every Size” (HAES) philosophy and understand that body size is not a determinant factor of health. By incorporating an “all foods fit” approach to eating, I work alongside my clients to understand and incorporate the benefits of a less restrictive, more inclusive and joyful approach to eating.
I am a registered dietitian who specializes in anorexia nervosa, binge eating disorder, bulimia, ARFID, orthorexia, and other specified feeding and eating disorders. I practice under the “Health At Every Size” (HAES) philosophy and understand that body size is not a determinant factor of health. By incorporating an “all foods fit” approach to eating, I work alongside my clients to understand and incorporate the benefits of a less restrictive, more inclusive and joyful approach to eating.
![Photo of Janice Lai, MS, RD, CNSC, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/cda11244-aab8-4048-af21-f7a7a1457a63/2/320x400.jpeg)
Hi there! I'm a pediatric dietitian passionate about helping kids achieve their best health with personalized nutrition plans. With years of experience at a major children's hospital and other medical facilities, I use evidence-based strategies to support children with picky eating, introducing first foods, reducing food allergy risks, optimizing weight, and more. What sets me apart is my dedication to creating individualized care plans that fit your family's unique situation. I listen to your concerns and understand your challenges, offering practical, tailored steps instead of generic advice.
Hi there! I'm a pediatric dietitian passionate about helping kids achieve their best health with personalized nutrition plans. With years of experience at a major children's hospital and other medical facilities, I use evidence-based strategies to support children with picky eating, introducing first foods, reducing food allergy risks, optimizing weight, and more. What sets me apart is my dedication to creating individualized care plans that fit your family's unique situation. I listen to your concerns and understand your challenges, offering practical, tailored steps instead of generic advice.
![Photo of Britta Storm, MS, CNS, CN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/d63ef847-8e20-4ca8-85f6-ee4f8c03cf3e/2/320x400.jpeg)
Do you struggle with the overwhelming nutrition noise? Would you like to tune into your body's unique needs rather than following one-size-fits-all advice? I focus on empowering clients to listen to their hunger cues, identify foods that energize and satisfy them, and recognize those that don't serve them well. This personalized approach considers their lifestyle, preferences, and underlying health conditions. By cutting through diet trends and focusing on whole, nourishing foods, I help them discover a balanced way of eating that supports their well-being and is sustainable long-term.
Do you struggle with the overwhelming nutrition noise? Would you like to tune into your body's unique needs rather than following one-size-fits-all advice? I focus on empowering clients to listen to their hunger cues, identify foods that energize and satisfy them, and recognize those that don't serve them well. This personalized approach considers their lifestyle, preferences, and underlying health conditions. By cutting through diet trends and focusing on whole, nourishing foods, I help them discover a balanced way of eating that supports their well-being and is sustainable long-term.
![Photo of Heather Brummer, MS, LAc, CN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/3e3fac6a-71d6-4c9f-9594-65c0bed3b058/2/320x400.jpeg)
Heather Brummer
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, LAc, CN
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98103 (Online Only)
Are you tired of being confused about what to eat? I'm here for you! As a nutritionist that has practiced for nearly twenty years, I have seen a lot of fads come and go. And I have worked with so many of you who have come to me unsure about which fad was “right”. Instead of focusing on the perfectly “right” way to eat, I help my clients find the right ways to eat for them, while also helping to reverse prediabetes, improve fertility or symptoms with PCOS, and create a more resilient immune and hormonal balance with autoimmune conditions such as Hashimoto’s disease.
Are you tired of being confused about what to eat? I'm here for you! As a nutritionist that has practiced for nearly twenty years, I have seen a lot of fads come and go. And I have worked with so many of you who have come to me unsure about which fad was “right”. Instead of focusing on the perfectly “right” way to eat, I help my clients find the right ways to eat for them, while also helping to reverse prediabetes, improve fertility or symptoms with PCOS, and create a more resilient immune and hormonal balance with autoimmune conditions such as Hashimoto’s disease.
![Photo of Al McKee, MS, RD, CD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/121f15d7-68d6-4be5-bee3-19af5b42efd7/1/320x400.jpeg)
I'm here, I'm queer, and I am so excited to support my clients on their journey towards radical body liberation from the overwhelming oppressions of current societal and cultural norms. I believe that we all have rebellion in our roots, and by harnessing that power we can challenge the thoughts and belief systems that no longer serve us and come back to our authentic selves.
I'm here, I'm queer, and I am so excited to support my clients on their journey towards radical body liberation from the overwhelming oppressions of current societal and cultural norms. I believe that we all have rebellion in our roots, and by harnessing that power we can challenge the thoughts and belief systems that no longer serve us and come back to our authentic selves.
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Summit Nutrition Counseling
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CD
Verified Verified
Sammamish, WA 98075 (Online Only)
Healthy isn’t about a specific food or flavor—it’s a feeling. At Summit Nutrition, I know obsessing over food is stressful and overwhelming. Our holistic, science-based approach is here to cut through the noise and help you feel happy, nourished, and thriving. I work with a diverse range of clients, including those with eating disorders, body dysmorphia, pre-postnatal needs, ADHD, pediatric concerns, and chronic conditions. Let us help you break free from yo-yo dieting, manage your health with food, and build a lasting, positive relationship with eating. Everyone deserves compassionate, unbiased care. We look forward to helping you
Healthy isn’t about a specific food or flavor—it’s a feeling. At Summit Nutrition, I know obsessing over food is stressful and overwhelming. Our holistic, science-based approach is here to cut through the noise and help you feel happy, nourished, and thriving. I work with a diverse range of clients, including those with eating disorders, body dysmorphia, pre-postnatal needs, ADHD, pediatric concerns, and chronic conditions. Let us help you break free from yo-yo dieting, manage your health with food, and build a lasting, positive relationship with eating. Everyone deserves compassionate, unbiased care. We look forward to helping you
![Photo of Amanda Field, MS, RDN, CD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/58addd8a-46cd-11ea-a6ad-06142c356176/3/320x400.jpeg)
Improve your athletic performance, energy, and health with personalized nutrition to help you reach your sport and fitness goals. Restore your relationship with food and your body using intuitive eating, health at every size, and mindfulness approaches. Make sense of all the confusing nutrition information to prevent and control high blood pressure, cholesterol, and more. I specialize in exercise/sports nutrition, disordered eating, and wellness. My passion is helping you to break free of the guilt you may carry around food, and joining you on the journey towards building a healthy relationship with food to complement your lifestyle.
Improve your athletic performance, energy, and health with personalized nutrition to help you reach your sport and fitness goals. Restore your relationship with food and your body using intuitive eating, health at every size, and mindfulness approaches. Make sense of all the confusing nutrition information to prevent and control high blood pressure, cholesterol, and more. I specialize in exercise/sports nutrition, disordered eating, and wellness. My passion is helping you to break free of the guilt you may carry around food, and joining you on the journey towards building a healthy relationship with food to complement your lifestyle.
![Photo of Kathleen Putnam, MS, RD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/749c0abf-24df-4eb5-b176-27caaad9f5e1/2/320x400.jpeg)
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!
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!
![Photo of Shena R Jaramillo, MS, RD, CD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/e7bea03d-538b-4bb1-acb8-22ff5f118c55/1/320x400.jpeg)
Shena R Jaramillo
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CD
Verified Verified
Seattle, WA 98101 (Online Only)
Are you feeling completely out of control with food? Do you feel like you can't stop eating? Are you afraid to eat anything at all? Are you constantly afraid you will gain weight if you eat what you want? If so, it probably feels like there is no hope for you to stop stressing constantly about food and simply eat normally.
Are you feeling completely out of control with food? Do you feel like you can't stop eating? Are you afraid to eat anything at all? Are you constantly afraid you will gain weight if you eat what you want? If so, it probably feels like there is no hope for you to stop stressing constantly about food and simply eat normally.
![Photo of Tirzah Mpagi, MS, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/403aae53-2cc5-4f2c-90b7-ee5e2af8007d/1/320x400.jpeg)
I want to help you find your best self. I use a non-diet approach to nutrition with an emphasis on intuitive eating. I believe food is meant to nourish your body, mind and brain. I have worked with a diverse background of individuals and have experience counseling a variety of individuals with different ailments and or dietary restrictions. I want to help you find peace with your body and food. Let’s work together to find a lifestyle that’s easy, sustainable and full of your favorite foods.
I want to help you find your best self. I use a non-diet approach to nutrition with an emphasis on intuitive eating. I believe food is meant to nourish your body, mind and brain. I have worked with a diverse background of individuals and have experience counseling a variety of individuals with different ailments and or dietary restrictions. I want to help you find peace with your body and food. Let’s work together to find a lifestyle that’s easy, sustainable and full of your favorite foods.
![Photo of Robert Tena Bonilla, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/94a0f780-ec9d-4d0f-b535-e66e40e7f0f3/2/320x400.jpeg)
I am offering in person and telehealth options. I work with individuals struggling with eating disorders from ages 17 and up that have motivation to change and are willing to provide open and honest communication about their needs. I am here to support you in your goals to the best of my ability.
I am offering in person and telehealth options. I work with individuals struggling with eating disorders from ages 17 and up that have motivation to change and are willing to provide open and honest communication about their needs. I am here to support you in your goals to the best of my ability.
![Photo of Diane Renee Javelli - Diane Javelli Nutrition, LLC - 'Belly by Javelli', RDN, CD, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/64eaa6bf-ab24-4274-9c33-d1f7c4f6d80d/4/320x400.jpeg)
Diane Javelli Nutrition, LLC - 'Belly by Javelli'
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, CD
Verified Verified
Kent, WA 98042
Food shouldn't hurt! If you struggle with digestive issues like IBS, Crohn's, Colitis, Celiac, food allergies or others and are afraid to eat because food hurts, I understand the struggle and can partner with you to find the best diet to help you feel better. For over 20 years I have worked in the field of digestive nutrition with gastroenterologists and gastric surgeons from around the Puget Sound area. I am passionate about helping patients find relief from symptoms with diet and lifestyle changes.
Food shouldn't hurt! If you struggle with digestive issues like IBS, Crohn's, Colitis, Celiac, food allergies or others and are afraid to eat because food hurts, I understand the struggle and can partner with you to find the best diet to help you feel better. For over 20 years I have worked in the field of digestive nutrition with gastroenterologists and gastric surgeons from around the Puget Sound area. I am passionate about helping patients find relief from symptoms with diet and lifestyle changes.
![Photo of Rene Munday, MS, CN, Nutritionist/Dietitian](https://photos.healthprofs.com/066e29db-82d3-4f6c-8f71-9ed474e9e29e/2/320x400.jpeg)
I bring a unique approach to wellness providing personalized guidance tailored to each individual's lifestyle and needs. With a master's degree in nutrition and formal education in herbal science, cooking, and Ayurvedic medicine, my philosophy blends up-to-date science, modern natural medicine, and Eastern philosophy. I believe in caring for both the body and emotional well-being for optimal health. My passion lies in educating and empowering people to take control of their health. I align with natural cycles and provide support that goes beyond food, to feel your best.
I bring a unique approach to wellness providing personalized guidance tailored to each individual's lifestyle and needs. With a master's degree in nutrition and formal education in herbal science, cooking, and Ayurvedic medicine, my philosophy blends up-to-date science, modern natural medicine, and Eastern philosophy. I believe in caring for both the body and emotional well-being for optimal health. My passion lies in educating and empowering people to take control of their health. I align with natural cycles and provide support that goes beyond food, to feel your best.
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Lisa Ackerman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Edmonds, WA 98026 (Online Only)
Do you find yourself wading through the internet for diet and nutrition advice, looking for solutions to digestive issues, metabolic imbalance, or chronic health conditions? I work with clients who want to find optimal health but are confused about where to start or are feeling stuck by the vague advice their doctor gave them. Together we find a personalized approach to help you with your goal of feeling better, having more energy, and being able to participate in life.
Do you find yourself wading through the internet for diet and nutrition advice, looking for solutions to digestive issues, metabolic imbalance, or chronic health conditions? I work with clients who want to find optimal health but are confused about where to start or are feeling stuck by the vague advice their doctor gave them. Together we find a personalized approach to help you with your goal of feeling better, having more energy, and being able to participate in life.
FAQs - About Nutritionists and Dietitians
How can I find a dietitian or nutritionist in Washington?
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.