Nutritionists and Dietitians in Watauga County, NC

Photo of Sarah Helmick, MS, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Sarah Helmick
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Verified Verified
Boone, NC 28607
I work with those who are struggling with disordered eating patterns, eating disorders, who have poor relationships with food and body, and who are looking for a client centered, holistic approach to food while ditching diet culture and black and white thinking. I hope to help folks find sustainable approaches to food and movement and empower them to take care of their bodies, no matter the size or shape. I hope to shift your thinking from short term approaches to approaches that will last a lifetime.
I work with those who are struggling with disordered eating patterns, eating disorders, who have poor relationships with food and body, and who are looking for a client centered, holistic approach to food while ditching diet culture and black and white thinking. I hope to help folks find sustainable approaches to food and movement and empower them to take care of their bodies, no matter the size or shape. I hope to shift your thinking from short term approaches to approaches that will last a lifetime.
(828) 516-9602 View (828) 516-9602
Photo of Jenny Askew, MS, RD, LD, CLT, ACSM EP, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Jenny Askew
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LD, CLT, ACSM EP
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Boone, NC 28607
Are you sick and tired of feeling sick and tired? If you're wondering if your health issues are related to what you're eating, you're in the right place! Digestive disorders such as IBS, IBD, celiac, and GERD are our specialties. If you're tired of being told "it's all in your head" and to "eat more fiber" we're here to offer a new approach.
Are you sick and tired of feeling sick and tired? If you're wondering if your health issues are related to what you're eating, you're in the right place! Digestive disorders such as IBS, IBD, celiac, and GERD are our specialties. If you're tired of being told "it's all in your head" and to "eat more fiber" we're here to offer a new approach.
(678) 582-1475 View (678) 582-1475
Photo of Michelle Rizzi Shelfer, RD, LDN, CEDRD-S, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Michelle Rizzi Shelfer
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CEDRD-S
Verified Verified
Boone, NC 28607
My goal is to meet people where they are, and aid them in building a sustainable relationship with food and movement. I educate on how improving their nutrition can improve their mental and emotional health along with their physical well-being. I focus on "Improvement, not perfection!" As a certified group fitness instructor for over 22 years, I am able to help clients design a movement plan that works for them. While using a H.A.E.S, and intuitive eating approach, they are able to enjoy the journey of improvibg their relationship with food and movement.
My goal is to meet people where they are, and aid them in building a sustainable relationship with food and movement. I educate on how improving their nutrition can improve their mental and emotional health along with their physical well-being. I focus on "Improvement, not perfection!" As a certified group fitness instructor for over 22 years, I am able to help clients design a movement plan that works for them. While using a H.A.E.S, and intuitive eating approach, they are able to enjoy the journey of improvibg their relationship with food and movement.
(828) 337-5148 View (828) 337-5148
Photo of Lauren Furgiuele, MS, RDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Lauren Furgiuele
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Verified Verified
Boone, NC 28607
I work with adults looking to take a food-first approach to balance hormones, optimize fertility, improve gut issues, support autoimmunity, increase energy, and reduce cravings, aches, and pains. While trained in functional nutrition, I focus on treating the whole person with not only nutrition, but other evidence-based health practices such as movement, stress management, and sleep hygiene to address root causes. My goal is to leave you with less confusion and cravings, and more energy to live your life day-to-day, confidence in your ability to maintain your health, and excitement around food!
I work with adults looking to take a food-first approach to balance hormones, optimize fertility, improve gut issues, support autoimmunity, increase energy, and reduce cravings, aches, and pains. While trained in functional nutrition, I focus on treating the whole person with not only nutrition, but other evidence-based health practices such as movement, stress management, and sleep hygiene to address root causes. My goal is to leave you with less confusion and cravings, and more energy to live your life day-to-day, confidence in your ability to maintain your health, and excitement around food!
(828) 383-9686 View (828) 383-9686
Photo of Theresa Renee Saltsgaver, MS, RDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Theresa Renee Saltsgaver
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Verified Verified
Boone, NC 28607  (Online Only)
​​Are you struggling with your weight? Have you been diagnosed with prediabetes or gestational diabetes? Have you been diagnosed with high cholesterol or high blood pressure? ​ No matter what stage of life you are in, nutrition plays an important role in your health, and I am here to help. I am licensed in WV and NC and taking new clients via online Telehealth appointments.
​​Are you struggling with your weight? Have you been diagnosed with prediabetes or gestational diabetes? Have you been diagnosed with high cholesterol or high blood pressure? ​ No matter what stage of life you are in, nutrition plays an important role in your health, and I am here to help. I am licensed in WV and NC and taking new clients via online Telehealth appointments.
(919) 823-3077 View (919) 823-3077

Online Dietitians and Nutritionists

Photo of Kendra Leanne Gaffney - Nutritious Thoughts, LLC, RD, LDN, CEDS-C, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Nutritious Thoughts, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN, CEDS-C
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
We provide support around Eating Disorders, Eating Concerns, Embodiment, Nutrition for Substance Use Recovery, Nutrition for Mental Health, Nutrition for Competitive & Recreational Athletes, Chronic Health Concerns, and Gestational, Hormonal & Reproductive health. Nutritious Thoughts is a team of compassion-centered dietitians located in Asheville, Hendersonville, Boone, and Cary, North Carolina, practicing under the philosophy that humans of all body sizes, shapes, & abilities are worthy of care. We strive to create an authentic human experience through connection & creating positive relationships with food.
We provide support around Eating Disorders, Eating Concerns, Embodiment, Nutrition for Substance Use Recovery, Nutrition for Mental Health, Nutrition for Competitive & Recreational Athletes, Chronic Health Concerns, and Gestational, Hormonal & Reproductive health. Nutritious Thoughts is a team of compassion-centered dietitians located in Asheville, Hendersonville, Boone, and Cary, North Carolina, practicing under the philosophy that humans of all body sizes, shapes, & abilities are worthy of care. We strive to create an authentic human experience through connection & creating positive relationships with food.
(828) 348-5822 View (828) 348-5822
Photo of Sarah Poling, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Sarah Poling
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28217  (Online Only)
Hello! I am a North Carolina-based Registered Dietitian with the group practice Karuna Wellness Studio, who sees clients virtually across the US. Karuna is a group practice that offers nutrition and movement services through a anti-diet, HAES-aligned, weight-neutral approach. We integrate elements of lifestyle medicine & nutritional psychiatry to serve as health advocates for our clients, promoting both physical and mental health. With clients, I create safe space where her clients can discover their authentic selves, meet their needs while rediscovering joy, and work toward autonomy in their relationship with food and body.
Hello! I am a North Carolina-based Registered Dietitian with the group practice Karuna Wellness Studio, who sees clients virtually across the US. Karuna is a group practice that offers nutrition and movement services through a anti-diet, HAES-aligned, weight-neutral approach. We integrate elements of lifestyle medicine & nutritional psychiatry to serve as health advocates for our clients, promoting both physical and mental health. With clients, I create safe space where her clients can discover their authentic selves, meet their needs while rediscovering joy, and work toward autonomy in their relationship with food and body.
(980) 351-3524 View (980) 351-3524
Photo of Jessica Mae Gilbreath, MS, CNS, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Jessica Mae Gilbreath
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, CNS, LDN
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28804
I’m Jessica Gilbreath — Licensed Dietician Nutritionist — and I’m here to take the confusion and frustration out of food through a nutrition approach that works for you. With a focus on healing through a root-cause approach — this is shame-free, personalized nutrition that puts you in the driver’s seat. We’ll navigate your unique health challenges, through assessments and analysis, to discover not only WHAT is happening in your body, but WHY it is happening.
I’m Jessica Gilbreath — Licensed Dietician Nutritionist — and I’m here to take the confusion and frustration out of food through a nutrition approach that works for you. With a focus on healing through a root-cause approach — this is shame-free, personalized nutrition that puts you in the driver’s seat. We’ll navigate your unique health challenges, through assessments and analysis, to discover not only WHAT is happening in your body, but WHY it is happening.
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Photo of Kevin Manbeck - Kevin Manbeck - Nutritious Thoughts, LLC, MS, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Kevin Manbeck - Nutritious Thoughts, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Asheville, NC 28801
I am a Registered Dietitian who provides non-diet nutrition counseling to help discover, or rediscover, what a healthful relationship with food and the body can feel like.
I am a Registered Dietitian who provides non-diet nutrition counseling to help discover, or rediscover, what a healthful relationship with food and the body can feel like.
(984) 331-5346 View (984) 331-5346
Photo of Rebecca Subbiah, RDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Rebecca Subbiah
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Verified Verified
Winston Salem, NC 27101
You are valued and of worth, you matter and your wellbeing is important. Anchored Nutrition Therapy approaches health through a HAES (Health at Every Size) lens promoting weight inclusivity, health promoting behaviors, a flexible eating approach based on intuitive eating, meeting your nutritional needs, learning to be in tune with your body and enjoy your food. Helping you find joy in movement. All are welcome.
You are valued and of worth, you matter and your wellbeing is important. Anchored Nutrition Therapy approaches health through a HAES (Health at Every Size) lens promoting weight inclusivity, health promoting behaviors, a flexible eating approach based on intuitive eating, meeting your nutritional needs, learning to be in tune with your body and enjoy your food. Helping you find joy in movement. All are welcome.
(336) 395-5085 View (336) 395-5085
Photo of Sara Geiger, MS, RDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Sara Geiger
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, LDN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28203
Hello there! I’m a fiercely anti-diet Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) specializing in eating disorders. My journey as a dietitian began at the intersection of nutrition and psychology. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition Science and a Bachelor of Art in Psychology degrees from North Carolina State University and a Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetic Practice from Thomas Jefferson University. My commitment to ongoing education and practicing with humility ensures that I provide evidence-based, personalized care to each of my clients. I have eating disorder experience at multiple levels of care.
Hello there! I’m a fiercely anti-diet Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) specializing in eating disorders. My journey as a dietitian began at the intersection of nutrition and psychology. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition Science and a Bachelor of Art in Psychology degrees from North Carolina State University and a Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetic Practice from Thomas Jefferson University. My commitment to ongoing education and practicing with humility ensures that I provide evidence-based, personalized care to each of my clients. I have eating disorder experience at multiple levels of care.
(704) 285-2989 View (704) 285-2989
Photo of Laura Dragon, MS, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Laura Dragon
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28203  (Online Only)
Are you struggling with fatigue, brain fog, hormonal acne, irregular periods, hair loss, or digestive issues? Are you confused by all the conflicting nutrition advice out there and you are looking for some guidance? My mission is to help women finally feel their best and feel confident about nutrition without needing to obsess over food.
Are you struggling with fatigue, brain fog, hormonal acne, irregular periods, hair loss, or digestive issues? Are you confused by all the conflicting nutrition advice out there and you are looking for some guidance? My mission is to help women finally feel their best and feel confident about nutrition without needing to obsess over food.
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Photo of Megan Carber - Nourished + Strong with Meg Carber, RDN, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Nourished + Strong with Meg Carber
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RDN, LDN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Huntersville, NC 28078
Are you seeking clarity in the complex nutrition-health space? Perhaps you've tried various dietitians, diets, or treatment programs, yet lasting peace with food and self still feels out of reach. You might feel disconnected from your body, carrying years of shame and self-blame, but still desire to feel 'at home' within yourself. Your goals echo a desire to mend your relationship with food and exercise with alignment that is rooted in internal trust and understanding, not external validation. True healing and happiness can't be found in another diet; it's an embodied journey back to self—safety and self-compassion intertwined.
Are you seeking clarity in the complex nutrition-health space? Perhaps you've tried various dietitians, diets, or treatment programs, yet lasting peace with food and self still feels out of reach. You might feel disconnected from your body, carrying years of shame and self-blame, but still desire to feel 'at home' within yourself. Your goals echo a desire to mend your relationship with food and exercise with alignment that is rooted in internal trust and understanding, not external validation. True healing and happiness can't be found in another diet; it's an embodied journey back to self—safety and self-compassion intertwined.
(704) 666-4052 View (704) 666-4052
Photo of Growing Inward Nutrition Collective, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Growing Inward Nutrition Collective
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, LDN
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28803
Our hope is to accompany you on your journey of re-discovering the sacred connection to your body while healing your relationship with food. Everyone is born with intuitive wisdom to nourish and care for themselves, no matter how dormant it may feel. We use a non-diet approach to nutrition based on intuitive eating principles, weight-inclusive, and flexible thinking. We specialize in nutrition therapy for eating disorders, disordered eating, and chronic dieting. We are passionate about incorporating somatic modalities and integrating functional nutrition approaches and eco-therapy into nutrition counseling.
Our hope is to accompany you on your journey of re-discovering the sacred connection to your body while healing your relationship with food. Everyone is born with intuitive wisdom to nourish and care for themselves, no matter how dormant it may feel. We use a non-diet approach to nutrition based on intuitive eating principles, weight-inclusive, and flexible thinking. We specialize in nutrition therapy for eating disorders, disordered eating, and chronic dieting. We are passionate about incorporating somatic modalities and integrating functional nutrition approaches and eco-therapy into nutrition counseling.
(626) 605-1838 View (626) 605-1838
Photo of Laura Palmer, MS, RD, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Laura Palmer
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, RDN
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28277
Laura Palmer is a Registered Dietitian with 23 years of experience in varied settings, including outpatient nutrition counseling, nutrition health coaching/private practice and community nutrition (WIC/Cooperative Extension). Laura’s passion is counseling women; however, she also enjoys and has experience working with teens, adults, and seniors. Laura loves helping patients dig deeper into past actions, current thoughts, and expand on habits and sustainable behaviors that produce lasting change.
Laura Palmer is a Registered Dietitian with 23 years of experience in varied settings, including outpatient nutrition counseling, nutrition health coaching/private practice and community nutrition (WIC/Cooperative Extension). Laura’s passion is counseling women; however, she also enjoys and has experience working with teens, adults, and seniors. Laura loves helping patients dig deeper into past actions, current thoughts, and expand on habits and sustainable behaviors that produce lasting change.
(980) 303-6616 View (980) 303-6616
Photo of Julia Herbst, MS, RDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Julia Herbst
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28202  (Online Only)
Julia is a dedicated Registered Dietitian with a commitment to helping individuals overcome eating disorders and cultivate a healthy relationship with food. Julia strives to bring a compassionate and non-judgmental demeanor to foster a safe space where individuals feel heard and understood, making her a ready and capable resource in the challenging but transformative process of overcoming nutrition challenges. Julia offers a wealth of knowledge that comes from years of working in the inpatient setting.
Julia is a dedicated Registered Dietitian with a commitment to helping individuals overcome eating disorders and cultivate a healthy relationship with food. Julia strives to bring a compassionate and non-judgmental demeanor to foster a safe space where individuals feel heard and understood, making her a ready and capable resource in the challenging but transformative process of overcoming nutrition challenges. Julia offers a wealth of knowledge that comes from years of working in the inpatient setting.
(312) 494-0401 View (312) 494-0401
Photo of Dillon Smith - Dillon Smith - Nutritious Thoughts, LLC, MPH, RD, LDN, CPT, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Dillon Smith - Nutritious Thoughts, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MPH, RD, LDN, CPT
Verified Verified
Asheville, NC 28801
Nutrition is very personal and complex. Food is so closely connected to our identity and represents our lived experiences. Diet culture separates this connection resulting in an unnecessary challenge of having to distinguish between what we know will nourish our bodies versus what society tells us will nourish our bodies. As a Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist who recognizes Health at Every Size, I lean into body trust and autonomy.
Nutrition is very personal and complex. Food is so closely connected to our identity and represents our lived experiences. Diet culture separates this connection resulting in an unnecessary challenge of having to distinguish between what we know will nourish our bodies versus what society tells us will nourish our bodies. As a Registered Dietitian/Nutritionist who recognizes Health at Every Size, I lean into body trust and autonomy.
(984) 334-0678 View (984) 334-0678
Photo of Katie Schwartz, MS, RD, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Katie Schwartz
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RD, LDN
Verified Verified
Arden, NC 28704
I offer a weight neutral, client-centered, non-judgmental, trauma informed and somatically oriented approach to nutrition counseling where we work together to explore and heal your relationship with food and body image. I specialize in working with folks who have eating disorders, disordered eating, diabetes, PCOS, athletes AND those that are wanting to explore their relationship with food and learn more about nutrition. These experiences help inform my nutrition practice and I’m excited to continue to learn from the clients I have the privilege of working with now.
I offer a weight neutral, client-centered, non-judgmental, trauma informed and somatically oriented approach to nutrition counseling where we work together to explore and heal your relationship with food and body image. I specialize in working with folks who have eating disorders, disordered eating, diabetes, PCOS, athletes AND those that are wanting to explore their relationship with food and learn more about nutrition. These experiences help inform my nutrition practice and I’m excited to continue to learn from the clients I have the privilege of working with now.
(704) 610-4201 View (704) 610-4201
Photo of Kerri Holmquist, RD, CD,  RD, CDCES, LDN, Nutritionist/Dietitian
Kerri Holmquist
Nutritionist/Dietitian, RD, CD, RD, CDCES, LDN
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Charlotte, NC 28205  (Online Only)
Kerri is a Registered Dietitian, specializing in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, IBS, Diabetes, and Pregnancy Nutrition. She believes that the beauty of her profession is supporting clients to become empowered and confident as they explore what works for them. Kerri takes a lifelong and “food is fun” approach to her sessions, and understands that what may work in one season of life, may not work in the next. Kerri also believes in an all inclusive approach with foods and body types, providing an environment rich in opportunity to build trust and learning for both client and provider.
Kerri is a Registered Dietitian, specializing in working with adults and adolescents with Eating Disorders, Disordered Eating, IBS, Diabetes, and Pregnancy Nutrition. She believes that the beauty of her profession is supporting clients to become empowered and confident as they explore what works for them. Kerri takes a lifelong and “food is fun” approach to her sessions, and understands that what may work in one season of life, may not work in the next. Kerri also believes in an all inclusive approach with foods and body types, providing an environment rich in opportunity to build trust and learning for both client and provider.
(704) 859-2677 View (704) 859-2677
Photo of Jennifer Rawlings - My RDN Coach, LLC, MS, RDN, CDCES, Nutritionist/Dietitian
My RDN Coach, LLC
Nutritionist/Dietitian, MS, RDN, CDCES
Verified Verified
Charlotte, NC 28210  (Online Only)
Do you have type 2 diabetes or pre diabetes and want to reverse it? Are you ready to throw in the towel in trying to manage type 1 diabetes? Are you at risk due to high cholesterol, high triglycerides, or high blood pressure? If you feel frustrated or overwhelmed with having tried many different diets or have no idea where to start, I am here to help! After working with me you will feel empowered, confident, and have the tools to manage your health for the long haul!
Do you have type 2 diabetes or pre diabetes and want to reverse it? Are you ready to throw in the towel in trying to manage type 1 diabetes? Are you at risk due to high cholesterol, high triglycerides, or high blood pressure? If you feel frustrated or overwhelmed with having tried many different diets or have no idea where to start, I am here to help! After working with me you will feel empowered, confident, and have the tools to manage your health for the long haul!
(704) 931-5449 View (704) 931-5449
FAQs - About Nutritionists and Dietitians

How can I find a dietitian or nutritionist in Watauga 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.