Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Nutrition Therapist, and what does a Nutrition Therapist do?
A Nutrition Therapist is trained to help a client through the food they eat. Registered Dietitians and Nutritionists are types of Nutrition Therapists. They can assist clients through meal planning, testing for food allergies, analyzing daily nutritional intake and helping make adjustments, and may even diagnose illness brought on by an improper diet. Nutrition Therapists can assist people with losing weight, or creating special meals for medical treatment. The goal of a Nutrition Therapist is to promote healthy living through the foods we eat.
How can I choose the right Nutrition Therapist?
Requirements to become a practicing Nutrition Therapist vary by state. Typically, a Nutrition Therapist requires at least a bachelor’s degree in dietetics, foods and nutrition, food service systems management, or a related area. There are many specialized Nutrition Therapists as well, such as Renal Dietitians, so you may be able to narrow your search based on what kind of assistance you need. It is important to realize that there is a difference between someone who is a Registered Dietitian or Dietetic Technician, Registered and someone who is simply a Nutritionist.
How can I pay for their services?
Decide what you can afford to pay a nutrition therapist. There are several questions you may want to ask a nutrition therapist with regards to fees, such as:
- How much does the nutrition therapist charge per session?
- Does the nutrition therapist charge according to income (sliding scale)?
- Is there a policy concerning vacations and missed or canceled sessions? Is there a charge?
- Will your health insurance cover you if you see a nutrition therapist?
- Will the nutrition therapist want you to pay after each session, or will you be billed periodically?
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