Nutritionists and Dietitians in Lake County, IL

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Photo of Christina Fitzgerald - Fitzgerald Nutrition, MS, RD, CSSD, CEDS, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Fitzgerald Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, CSSD, CEDS
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010  (Online Only)
When you are facing everyday pressure from school, work, friends, relationships, and busy schedules, you can quickly feel at odds with your body or lost in your self-care. Then, you layer on the mixed messages from social media and you can go down a spiral with negative thoughts on what you “should” or “shouldn’t be” doing. And that is why I’m so happy you’re here! Imagine being able to trust your body again, to take what it needs and leave what it doesn’t – this opens up space to focus on what’s important (and fun!) in your life!
When you are facing everyday pressure from school, work, friends, relationships, and busy schedules, you can quickly feel at odds with your body or lost in your self-care. Then, you layer on the mixed messages from social media and you can go down a spiral with negative thoughts on what you “should” or “shouldn’t be” doing. And that is why I’m so happy you’re here! Imagine being able to trust your body again, to take what it needs and leave what it doesn’t – this opens up space to focus on what’s important (and fun!) in your life!
(847) 278-9748 View (847) 278-9748
Photo of Kelsey Jarnell, MS, RDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Kelsey Jarnell
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Verified Verified
Hi, I’m Kelsey! I am a Health at Every Size aligned Registered Dietitian specializing in eating disorders, disordered eating, co-occurring mental health disorders, intuitive eating, and weight-neutral medical nutrition therapy. I follow a size-inclusive, weight-neutral, non-diet, and evidence-based approach to help my clients re-frame their mindsets around diet culture and weight bias. I help educate and counsel clients to increase their awareness of the importance of nutritionally balanced lifestyles and disordered eating recovery using concepts such as All Foods Fit, Health at Every Size, and Intuitive Eating.
Hi, I’m Kelsey! I am a Health at Every Size aligned Registered Dietitian specializing in eating disorders, disordered eating, co-occurring mental health disorders, intuitive eating, and weight-neutral medical nutrition therapy. I follow a size-inclusive, weight-neutral, non-diet, and evidence-based approach to help my clients re-frame their mindsets around diet culture and weight bias. I help educate and counsel clients to increase their awareness of the importance of nutritionally balanced lifestyles and disordered eating recovery using concepts such as All Foods Fit, Health at Every Size, and Intuitive Eating.
(224) 505-1732 View (224) 505-1732
Photo of Teresa Romano, MS, RDN/LDN, CEDRD, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Teresa Romano
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN/LDN, CEDRD
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015
Are you feeling frustrated not knowing what or how to eat? Does your relationship to food and body feel out of control? Are you feeling as if your negative thoughts about food or your body are consuming most of your time throughout the day? Have you excluded major food groups or feeling excessive guilt or anxiety around eating certain foods? Do you engage in restricting, binge eating, purging, over-exercising or yo-yo dieting as a means to control weight? Are you wanting to feel less controlled over food and your physical appearance? If you answered “yes” to any of the above statements, nutritional services can help you.
Are you feeling frustrated not knowing what or how to eat? Does your relationship to food and body feel out of control? Are you feeling as if your negative thoughts about food or your body are consuming most of your time throughout the day? Have you excluded major food groups or feeling excessive guilt or anxiety around eating certain foods? Do you engage in restricting, binge eating, purging, over-exercising or yo-yo dieting as a means to control weight? Are you wanting to feel less controlled over food and your physical appearance? If you answered “yes” to any of the above statements, nutritional services can help you.
(847) 485-1778 View (847) 485-1778
Photo of Shannon Dickinson, MS, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Shannon Dickinson
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Verified Verified
Vernon Hills, IL 60061
I am a registered dietitian with an emphasis in eating disorder treatment. I love working with adolescents and adults of all ages as they navigate recovery from eating disorders, disordered eating and/or chronic dieting. I'm also passionate about assisting individuals in other health conditions that present either independently or co-occuring with eating disorders such as gastrointestinal challenges, diabetes, etc.
I am a registered dietitian with an emphasis in eating disorder treatment. I love working with adolescents and adults of all ages as they navigate recovery from eating disorders, disordered eating and/or chronic dieting. I'm also passionate about assisting individuals in other health conditions that present either independently or co-occuring with eating disorders such as gastrointestinal challenges, diabetes, etc.
(630) 509-0213 View (630) 509-0213
Photo of Robin Brown, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Robin Brown
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015
Being healthy doesn't have to be complicated. North Shore Balance works with clients to help them make small changes to their current habits to help them lead healthier lives.
Being healthy doesn't have to be complicated. North Shore Balance works with clients to help them make small changes to their current habits to help them lead healthier lives.
(224) 970-2820 View (224) 970-2820
Photo of Shilpa K Patel - Energycompass, MS, CNS, LDN, RDH, BEP, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Energycompass
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN, RDH, BEP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Barrington, IL 60010
As a Clinical Nutritionist, I believe in educating clients and understanding the complex interrelationship between nutrition, biochemical functions, lifestyle, and environment to target disorders and promote whole body function - such as sugar metabolism, GI health, brain/mental health, hormone function, immune system, and more. Using a wide range of tools, including individualized lab testing, assessment, and identification of potential nutritional and lifestyle imbalances and how they may be contributing to one's health concerns, helps to design a personalized care plan focused on "Health at Every Size" for a long-term solution.
As a Clinical Nutritionist, I believe in educating clients and understanding the complex interrelationship between nutrition, biochemical functions, lifestyle, and environment to target disorders and promote whole body function - such as sugar metabolism, GI health, brain/mental health, hormone function, immune system, and more. Using a wide range of tools, including individualized lab testing, assessment, and identification of potential nutritional and lifestyle imbalances and how they may be contributing to one's health concerns, helps to design a personalized care plan focused on "Health at Every Size" for a long-term solution.
(847) 994-4313 View (847) 994-4313
Photo of Janine Reinholtz Pruett, MS, RDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Janine Reinholtz Pruett
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Verified Verified
Gurnee, IL 60031  (Online Only)
My ideal patient is someone who is interested making changes to improve their lives. Some individuals are directed by their doctor to start changing and they don't know where to start, others are ready and have started making the changes but may feel frustrated that they haven't seen the results; if you are there or somewhere in between remember that there is no 'right stage of change, I will meet you where you are My specialty has been in weight management (especially in the realm of bariatrics), but my passion exceeds weight loss support; regardless of what your goals are, I want to be there to assist you in making those changes.
My ideal patient is someone who is interested making changes to improve their lives. Some individuals are directed by their doctor to start changing and they don't know where to start, others are ready and have started making the changes but may feel frustrated that they haven't seen the results; if you are there or somewhere in between remember that there is no 'right stage of change, I will meet you where you are My specialty has been in weight management (especially in the realm of bariatrics), but my passion exceeds weight loss support; regardless of what your goals are, I want to be there to assist you in making those changes.
(224) 479-0265 View (224) 479-0265
Photo of Christina Fitzgerald - Fitzgerald Nutrition (virtual appts), RD, CSSD, CEDS, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Fitzgerald Nutrition (virtual appts)
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CSSD, CEDS
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010  (Online Only)
When you are facing everyday pressure from school, work, friends, relationships, busy schedules, you can quickly feel at odds with your body or lost in your self care. Then, you layer on the mixed messages from social media and you can go down a spiral with negative thoughts on what you “should” or “shouldn’t be” doing. And that is why I’m so happy you’re here! Imagine being able to trust your body again, to take what it needs and leave what it doesn’t – this opens up space to focus on what’s really important (and fun!) in your life!
When you are facing everyday pressure from school, work, friends, relationships, busy schedules, you can quickly feel at odds with your body or lost in your self care. Then, you layer on the mixed messages from social media and you can go down a spiral with negative thoughts on what you “should” or “shouldn’t be” doing. And that is why I’m so happy you’re here! Imagine being able to trust your body again, to take what it needs and leave what it doesn’t – this opens up space to focus on what’s really important (and fun!) in your life!
(224) 219-0740 View (224) 219-0740
Photo of Rita Ekelman, MBA, RDN, LDN, CD, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Rita Ekelman
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MBA, RDN, LDN, CD
Verified Verified
Long Grove, IL 60047  (Online Only)
My ideal client struggles with disordered eating, emotional eating, or medical nutrition issues like diabetes or gastrointestinal problems. They feel overwhelmed by food choices, guilt, or body image concerns. Their goal is to regain control over their eating habits, heal their relationship with food, and manage their health without restrictive diets. They seek clarity, structure, and emotional support to develop a sustainable, balanced approach to nutrition that improves both their mental and physical well-being
My ideal client struggles with disordered eating, emotional eating, or medical nutrition issues like diabetes or gastrointestinal problems. They feel overwhelmed by food choices, guilt, or body image concerns. Their goal is to regain control over their eating habits, heal their relationship with food, and manage their health without restrictive diets. They seek clarity, structure, and emotional support to develop a sustainable, balanced approach to nutrition that improves both their mental and physical well-being
(847) 649-6265 View (847) 649-6265
Photo of Taryn DeCicco - Apple-A-Day Clinic, SC, MS, ND, LAc, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Apple-A-Day Clinic, SC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, ND, LAc, LDN
Verified Verified
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
Congratulations on your decision to explore natural medicine! While in general practice as a holistic doctor for 15 years, I specialize in Digestive problems: IBS, colitis, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's, diverticulosis/diverticulitis, irritable bowel, bloating, heartburn, reflux, GERD. I also specialize in skin disorders like: eczema, psoriasis, rashes, boils, acne, skin beautification, and hair loss in men and women. I have many tools in my naturopathic tool box at award winning Apple-A-Day Clinic featuring naturopathy, acupuncture, and clinical nutrition. I enjoy speaking with new clients and offer a free consultation call us!
Congratulations on your decision to explore natural medicine! While in general practice as a holistic doctor for 15 years, I specialize in Digestive problems: IBS, colitis, ulcerative colitis, Crohn's, diverticulosis/diverticulitis, irritable bowel, bloating, heartburn, reflux, GERD. I also specialize in skin disorders like: eczema, psoriasis, rashes, boils, acne, skin beautification, and hair loss in men and women. I have many tools in my naturopathic tool box at award winning Apple-A-Day Clinic featuring naturopathy, acupuncture, and clinical nutrition. I enjoy speaking with new clients and offer a free consultation call us!
(847) 443-9468 View (847) 443-9468
Photo of Alisa C Bloom, MPH, RDN, LDN, NBC-HWC, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Alisa C Bloom
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RDN, LDN, NBC-HWC
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015
Are you struggling with one or more life-disrupting symptoms that have been dismissed by other medical providers, despite being on one or more medications? As a DNA-Focused Nutritionist, let me help you use food as medicine, in customized, realistic steps! I add a functional nutrition approach, with herbs and supplements as needed, to discover the root cause of symptoms and develop a personalized plan that evolves with you while you optimize your health. This approach works incredibly well to lift mood, minimize medications, lose weight, increase energy, balance blood sugar and insulin levels, lower blood pressure, and sleep better.
Are you struggling with one or more life-disrupting symptoms that have been dismissed by other medical providers, despite being on one or more medications? As a DNA-Focused Nutritionist, let me help you use food as medicine, in customized, realistic steps! I add a functional nutrition approach, with herbs and supplements as needed, to discover the root cause of symptoms and develop a personalized plan that evolves with you while you optimize your health. This approach works incredibly well to lift mood, minimize medications, lose weight, increase energy, balance blood sugar and insulin levels, lower blood pressure, and sleep better.
(224) 507-1973 View (224) 507-1973
Photo of Rita Faycurry, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Rita Faycurry
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010
I provide evidence-based nutrition counseling and education in my practice. My goal is to prevent and reduce the risk of chronic diseases related to dietary lifestyle choices using a personalized approach that works for you. As a licensed registered dietitian, I have completed an accredited supervised practice and passed a national exam making me an expert in the field of nutrition and dietetics. My continued education in the field of nutrition allows me to maintain my registration.
I provide evidence-based nutrition counseling and education in my practice. My goal is to prevent and reduce the risk of chronic diseases related to dietary lifestyle choices using a personalized approach that works for you. As a licensed registered dietitian, I have completed an accredited supervised practice and passed a national exam making me an expert in the field of nutrition and dietetics. My continued education in the field of nutrition allows me to maintain my registration.
(630) 478-2348 View (630) 478-2348
Photo of Judy E. Manisco, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Judy E. Manisco
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015
Voted Best "Weight Loss & Nutrition Program in the Chicago Area with over 20 Years Of Nutrition-Dietary Success. A Wholistic, Integrated, Functional Medicine approach, along with Balancing Glucose and Insulin Levels has helped patients lose between 5 and 125 pounds (single person), I will help you feel energized and happy again. Customized Eating Plans for your specific needs and lifestyle along with continuous Nutrition Education. I look forward to sharing my "JEM Bites" with you. Please leave a Voice Message if calling. Learn more about Judy E. Manisco, RD,LDN at www.jemnutriionservices.com
Voted Best "Weight Loss & Nutrition Program in the Chicago Area with over 20 Years Of Nutrition-Dietary Success. A Wholistic, Integrated, Functional Medicine approach, along with Balancing Glucose and Insulin Levels has helped patients lose between 5 and 125 pounds (single person), I will help you feel energized and happy again. Customized Eating Plans for your specific needs and lifestyle along with continuous Nutrition Education. I look forward to sharing my "JEM Bites" with you. Please leave a Voice Message if calling. Learn more about Judy E. Manisco, RD,LDN at www.jemnutriionservices.com
(708) 512-7172 View (708) 512-7172
Photo of Mark LeVine, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Mark LeVine
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Verified Verified
Libertyville, IL 60048
Wholistic, realistic, and sustainable. These three words are at the core of how I live, why I became a registered dietitian, and how I engage with my clients. I have a unique perspective as a registered dietitian: There are a limited number of male dietitians, I am a husband, a father, and significant life experience that allows me to truly understand client’s situations, and provide wholistic, realistic, and sustainable changes that can improve not only their physical health, but their mental and emotional health as well.
Wholistic, realistic, and sustainable. These three words are at the core of how I live, why I became a registered dietitian, and how I engage with my clients. I have a unique perspective as a registered dietitian: There are a limited number of male dietitians, I am a husband, a father, and significant life experience that allows me to truly understand client’s situations, and provide wholistic, realistic, and sustainable changes that can improve not only their physical health, but their mental and emotional health as well.
(630) 703-0028 View (630) 703-0028
Photo of Olga Kras, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Olga Kras
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Verified Verified
Lake Bluff, IL 60044
Olga Kras is a registered, licensed dietitian nutritionist with 25 years of experience. She is an accomplished dietitian, counselor, educator, and wellness consultant known for her concierge-type 1:1 service. Working with her amplifies a healthy lifestyle, as well as motivates and empowers her patients and clients on the journey to achieving and succeeding in their individual goals. Olga’s expertise and current knowledge of nutrition and dietetic-related products, menu development, trends and standards, and diverse background in clinical areas will provide you with the necessary tools to nourish and heal.
Olga Kras is a registered, licensed dietitian nutritionist with 25 years of experience. She is an accomplished dietitian, counselor, educator, and wellness consultant known for her concierge-type 1:1 service. Working with her amplifies a healthy lifestyle, as well as motivates and empowers her patients and clients on the journey to achieving and succeeding in their individual goals. Olga’s expertise and current knowledge of nutrition and dietetic-related products, menu development, trends and standards, and diverse background in clinical areas will provide you with the necessary tools to nourish and heal.
(630) 509-7732 View (630) 509-7732
Photo of Robin Brown, RD, LDN, MBA, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Robin Brown
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, MBA
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015
I am a registered dietitian with over fifteen years experience. I became a RD to help people live their healthiest lives. My varied nutrition background helps me bring a unique view to working with clients. I have worked in hospitals, schools, food pantries, and in agriculture. I am a mom of three young kids and our family loves to stay active. Whether it is swimming in the summer (we're just outside of Chicago!), skiing/snowboarding in the winter, or family walks around our neighborhood, we like to keep busy! In my free time, I love to practice pilates.
I am a registered dietitian with over fifteen years experience. I became a RD to help people live their healthiest lives. My varied nutrition background helps me bring a unique view to working with clients. I have worked in hospitals, schools, food pantries, and in agriculture. I am a mom of three young kids and our family loves to stay active. Whether it is swimming in the summer (we're just outside of Chicago!), skiing/snowboarding in the winter, or family walks around our neighborhood, we like to keep busy! In my free time, I love to practice pilates.
(630) 593-7729 View (630) 593-7729
Photo of Kimberly Novotny, RDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Kimberly Novotny
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Verified Verified
Deerfield, IL 60015
I help my patients improve their relationship with food and their body and use an individualized, patient-centered approach and motivational interviewing. I believe that all foods have a place in a well-balanced diet and that small but powerful changes over time will help individuals reach their goals. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, young adults, and families on a range of food-related issues, including eating disorder recovery, self-esteem and body image, food allergies and intolerances, diabetes management, cardiovascular conditions, pre- and post-natal nutrition, and general wellness.
I help my patients improve their relationship with food and their body and use an individualized, patient-centered approach and motivational interviewing. I believe that all foods have a place in a well-balanced diet and that small but powerful changes over time will help individuals reach their goals. I enjoy working with children, adolescents, young adults, and families on a range of food-related issues, including eating disorder recovery, self-esteem and body image, food allergies and intolerances, diabetes management, cardiovascular conditions, pre- and post-natal nutrition, and general wellness.
(224) 243-4468 View (224) 243-4468
Photo of Erika Kristine Dycus, MS, RN, LDN, CNS, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Erika Kristine Dycus
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RN, LDN, CNS
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010  (Online Only)
Are You Sick and Tired of Being Sick and Tired? Have you been struggling to lose weight? Are you so bloated that you can't get your pants buttoned? Do your intestines feel like they're on fire? Do you feel like your mind is in a fog? Believe it or not, your gut health is likely to blame. It's not your fault! We live in a world surrounded by processed foods and environmental toxins, but there is hope! I help women like you lose weight, beat the bloat, and eliminate fatigue by repairing your digestive tract and teaching you how to eat for your body! Ready to learn more?
Are You Sick and Tired of Being Sick and Tired? Have you been struggling to lose weight? Are you so bloated that you can't get your pants buttoned? Do your intestines feel like they're on fire? Do you feel like your mind is in a fog? Believe it or not, your gut health is likely to blame. It's not your fault! We live in a world surrounded by processed foods and environmental toxins, but there is hope! I help women like you lose weight, beat the bloat, and eliminate fatigue by repairing your digestive tract and teaching you how to eat for your body! Ready to learn more?
(815) 855-2042 View (815) 855-2042
Photo of Libby Moser - Piece of Nutrition, MS, RDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Piece of Nutrition
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Verified Verified
Buffalo Grove, IL 60089
Piece of Nutrition - founded by Libby Moser, MS, RDN - is a group nutrition practice located in Chicago, IL. We are on a mission to support their client’s health through individual counseling sessions and group education services.  The practice meets clients where they are, offering personalized support. The focus on integrating therapeutic techniques with practical nutrition education allows clients to navigate life transitions and emotional challenges while building a healthier relationship with food. The P.O.N. team is able to provide services virtually in 11 states and counting!
Piece of Nutrition - founded by Libby Moser, MS, RDN - is a group nutrition practice located in Chicago, IL. We are on a mission to support their client’s health through individual counseling sessions and group education services.  The practice meets clients where they are, offering personalized support. The focus on integrating therapeutic techniques with practical nutrition education allows clients to navigate life transitions and emotional challenges while building a healthier relationship with food. The P.O.N. team is able to provide services virtually in 11 states and counting!
(773) 207-5310 View (773) 207-5310
Photo of Rachael Costello, MS, RDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Rachael Costello
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Verified Verified
Barrington, IL 60010  (Online Only)
Great health begins with great nutrition! Are you ready to feel better and take control of your own health? I will help you sort through all the nutrition information and make choices that you can maintain. We will work together to develop attainable goals. I specialize in digestive issues and am trained in the use of the low FODMAP diet for IBS through Monash University. Your health is guided by the health of your gut. I also work in weight management and food allergies.
Great health begins with great nutrition! Are you ready to feel better and take control of your own health? I will help you sort through all the nutrition information and make choices that you can maintain. We will work together to develop attainable goals. I specialize in digestive issues and am trained in the use of the low FODMAP diet for IBS through Monash University. Your health is guided by the health of your gut. I also work in weight management and food allergies.
(608) 807-4879 View (608) 807-4879
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FAQs - About Nutritionists and Dietitians

How can I find a dietitian or nutritionist in Lake County?

To find dietitians and nutritionists near you, input your city, town, suburb, zip code, or a provider's name in the search bar at the top of the page. From there, you can filter by specialty, treatment technique, and gender to find a dietitian or nutritionist who matches your needs.

When you visit a dietitian or nutritionist's profile, you can get a better idea if they're the right fit for you. Consider things like session cost, accepted insurance plans, and their location or telehealth options. If someone seems like a good match, you can email them or call the number on their profile. When speaking with a professional, pay attention to whether or not you feel comfortable in the conversation and how knowledgeable they are about your specific nutrition concerns. It may also be helpful to ask more about their general approach to nutrition and the training behind their credentials.

What is the difference between a dietitian and a nutritionist?

The terms dietitian and nutritionist are often used interchangeably. However, there are actually key credential differences between dietitians and nutritionists that are important to keep in mind when seeking a nutrition professional.

A registered dietitian (RD) or registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) has earned at least a graduate degree from an accredited program, completed a supervised practice program, passed the Commission on Dietetic Registration exam, and continues their education regularly. The RD and RDN credentials are regulated by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the largest nutrition-related organization in the country. Only professionals who meet their standards can call themselves an RD or RDN and enjoy privileges like billing insurance. Additionally, RDs and RDNs can get board certifications in specialized areas such as gerontological nutrition (CSG), sports dietetics (CSSD), pediatric nutrition (CSP), renal nutrition (CSR), or oncology nutrition (CSO). They also need state licensure, which usually aligns with national requirements.

In contrast, the title "nutritionist" doesn't require any formal education or credentials; anyone can use the title of nutritionist, including those with very limited or no formal training in nutrition. Although there are certification programs that are marketed toward those interested in nutrition counseling, the rigor and academic requirements for such programs varies greatly. These important differences between dietitians and nutritionists are thus very important to consider when choosing the right nutrition professional for your needs. To be listed in the HealthProfs directory, Nutritionists must have a minimum of a Masters Degree in a relevant field.

When should I see a dietitian or a nutritionist?

Clients seek nutritional support from dietitians and nutritionists for various reasons, ranging from medical conditions to lifestyle concerns like weight loss or dietary requirements; however, it's always important to find a professional who is a good fit for you. Consider factors such as insurance coverage, your specific medical or dietary concerns, and the availability of professionals near you to determine whether a dietitian or nutritionist may be a better fit.

Generally, nutritionists are not covered by insurance, whereas Registered Dietitians (RDs) often are, especially for those with medical conditions. If you have a chronic medical condition like cancer or kidney disease, you might want to seek out an RD with specialized expertise, such as a Board Certified Specialist in Oncology Nutrition (CSO) or a Board Certified Specialist in Renal Nutrition (CSR). These credentials indicate advanced education and a commitment to ongoing learning within a specific area. Additionally, consider the availability of professionals in your area and their openness to telehealth sessions. While the field of dietetics is growing, there may not always be a wide selection of professionals, especially in rural areas. In such cases, focusing on the experience and expertise of the nutrition professional can be more important than their specific credentials.

Do I need a referral to see a dietitian or a nutritionist?

A referral is not required to see a dietitian or nutritionist, and many individuals independently seek nutritional support without prior medical advice. However, for a nutrition service to be covered by insurance, a referral from a primary care physician or another medical professional may be necessary. In such cases, a referral is typically made for those who have been formally diagnosed with a medical condition requiring nutrition counseling, such as diabetes or hypertension. If insurance coverage is critical to a client's ability to see a dietitian, they should contact their insurance provider to determine if a referral is needed for nutritional counseling and to understand any potential co-pays or coverage limits that may apply in their individual circumstance.

How much does it cost to see a dietitian or a nutritionist?

The cost of seeing a dietitian or nutritionist depends on a number of variables, including their location, their specialty, whether they take insurance, and the professional's experience and training. On average, the cost of out-of-pocket sessions with a dietitian or nutritionist within the United States ranges from $50-$150. In some cases, nutrition professionals will require a longer initial evaluation session that will cost more than ongoing follow-up sessions. Dietitians and nutritionists may also offer packages for clients interested in longer-term nutritional support; in such cases, they may charge monthly or other periodic fees for more comprehensive services, such as a combination of nutrition sessions and out-of-session coaching support. If nutrition services are covered by a client's insurance plan and they are eligible for coverage based on any referral requirements, the out-of-pocket cost of seeing a dietitian may be completely covered or significantly reduced.

Are consultations with a dietitian or nutritionist covered by insurance?

If your insurance covers nutrition services, the cost is usually lower than paying out-of-pocket. However, insurance coverage can vary based on factors like your specific plan details, whether you choose an in-network or out-of-network provider, and whether you have a referral for nutrition services based on a medical diagnosis.

Coverage also depends on the type of nutrition service. Typically, insurance plans only cover services provided by a licensed Registered Dietitian (RD) and do not cover those offered by nutritionists or nutrition coaches without the RD credential. If nutrition services are not covered by your insurance, some dietitians and nutritionists may offer sliding scale rates or lower-cost services for clients who cannot afford their full fee. However, these spots are often limited and may not always be available.