What is a registered dietitian?  What is the difference between a registered dietitian and a nutritionist?

A registered dietitian (RD) is a nutrition expert who provides nutrition information and guidance about how to use that information to enhance health.

While anyone can call themselves a “nutritionist” –  regardless of their education, background, or experience –  registered dietitians have met the credentialing requirements of the American Dietetic Association’s Commission on Dietetic Registration. These requirements include an undergraduate or graduate degree in nutrition and an internship. In addition, registered dietitians must pass a national credentialing examination and are required to maintain 75 continuing education credits every five years.

Many states’ professional licensing boards offer a Licensed Dietitian-Nutritionist (LDN) credential.  Only registered dietitians are qualified to use the LDN credential.

What is a Nutrition Therapist?

We call ourselves “Nutrition Therapists” because our work with people who are struggling with eating and weight issues includes not only nutrition education, but also focusing on the individual’s relationship with food and body.

While we offer information about the body’s needs and how it functions, we also examine beliefs about food and weight that may be getting in the way of a confident and joyful relationship with food.  In addition, we provide support for managing behaviors, such as restricting food intake, overeating, excessive exercising, and purging.

Setting Up Your Team

Moving toward a healthy relationship with food and body requires courage and hard work.  Collaborating with experienced professionals makes all the difference.

Depending on your needs, your team of professionals may include a psychotherapist, nutrition therapist, physician, psychiatrist, family therapist, group therapist, or creative arts therapists who focus on movement, art, or psychodrama.

Together, we will determine what kinds of support you need, and we will help you establish a team of experts who will work with you to meet your self care goals.