Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between a Registered Dietitian and nutritionist?
The main difference between a Registered Dietitian (RD/RDN) and a nutritionist is the level of education, supervised training, credentialing, and scope of practice. A Registered Dietitian must complete a master’s degree in nutrition or dietetics from an accredited program, complete at least 1,000 hours of supervised practice and an internship, and pass a national board exam administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR). RDs are also trained and qualified to provide Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) for conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, heart disease, digestive disorders, and eating disorders. The term “nutritionist” is less regulated, meaning education, training, and qualifications can vary significantly from person to person and from state to state.
When would you begin feeling better?
It depends on what you're working on and your individual health goals. For some, you may begin to feel better after the first session and for others it may take more time. Some people may notice improvements in energy, digestion, blood sugar, or eating habits within a few weeks, while changes related to weight, cholesterol, blood pressure, or chronic disease management may take several weeks to months. I can help you set realistic goals, make sustainable changes, and adjust your plan based on your progress. Nutrition is not a quick fix; it’s about building habits that improve your health over time.
What states can Coastie Dietitian see clients in?
You must be physically present in any of these states (Mississippi, Colorado, Texas, New York, Arizona, Michigan, Virginia, New Jersey, Oregon) in order to have a nutrition counseling session according to licensure laws.
Does Coastie Dietitian accept health insurance?
Please understand we do not accept insurance, but instead offer an "out of network" or Superbill form instead. You may request a superbill which you may submit to insurance for your own reimbursement. A superbill does not guarantee payment for services. Insurance companies may or may not cover medical nutrition therapy. It is your responsibility to check insurance benefits and communicate with your insurance company about reimbursement of services.
