76,238
Dietitians & Nutritionists
100%
Accepting patients
35%
Most common: RD
FindClarity lists 76,238 dietitians & nutritionists nationwide. 100% are currently accepting new patients. The most common credential is RD (35%).
Registered dietitians (RDs) and registered dietitian nutritionists (RDNs) are food and nutrition experts who translate the science of nutrition into practical dietary advice. They hold a bachelor's degree in nutrition or dietetics, complete a supervised practice program (1,000+ hours), and pass a national registration exam. Starting in 2024, a master's degree is required for new RDNs.
Dietitians work across many settings: hospitals (managing nutrition for critically ill patients), outpatient clinics (treating diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease), private practice (weight management, sports nutrition, eating disorders), and community health (WIC programs, school nutrition).
Dietitians differ from "nutritionists" in an important way: "dietitian" is a legally protected title requiring specific education, supervised practice, and licensure. In many states, anyone can call themselves a nutritionist regardless of training. When choosing a nutrition professional, look for the RD or RDN credential.
See a dietitian if you have been diagnosed with diabetes, heart disease, kidney disease, celiac disease, or food allergies that require dietary management. Dietitians also help with weight management, eating disorders (in conjunction with a therapist), pregnancy nutrition, sports performance nutrition, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and managing side effects of cancer treatment. Your doctor may refer you after a new diagnosis, but many people also seek out a dietitian on their own for help with their relationship with food or to improve their diet for general health.
An initial session lasts 60 to 90 minutes. The dietitian will review your medical history, current medications, eating patterns (you may be asked to keep a food diary beforehand), physical activity, cooking skills, and food preferences. They will assess lab results if relevant (blood sugar, cholesterol, kidney function). Together, you will set realistic goals and develop a meal plan that fits your life. Follow-up sessions (30 to 60 minutes) typically occur every two to four weeks. Dietitians do not prescribe rigid diets; they help you build sustainable eating habits.
Initial consultation: $100-250 · Follow-up session: $75-150 · With insurance copay: $20-50 · Medicare MNT: $0 copay for diabetes/kidney disease
"Registered dietitian" (RD) or "registered dietitian nutritionist" (RDN) is a legally protected credential requiring a degree in nutrition, 1,000+ hours of supervised practice, and a national exam. "Nutritionist" is not a protected title in most states, meaning anyone can use it regardless of training. When seeking nutrition advice, look for the RD or RDN credential to ensure evidence-based guidance from a qualified professional.
Many insurance plans cover medical nutrition therapy (MNT) with a dietitian when you have a qualifying diagnosis, most commonly diabetes, kidney disease, or recent organ transplant. Medicare covers MNT for diabetes and kidney disease (three hours the first year, two hours in subsequent years). Coverage for weight management, eating disorders, and other conditions varies by plan. Check your specific benefits.
This depends on your goals and condition. For diabetes management, four to six sessions in the first year is typical. For weight management, monthly sessions for three to six months help build lasting habits. For eating disorder recovery, sessions may be weekly for an extended period alongside therapy. Some people see a dietitian once for a meal plan review and education. Your dietitian will recommend a follow-up schedule based on your needs.
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Insurance coverage for dietitian services depends on your diagnosis. Medicare covers medical nutrition therapy for diabetes and kidney disease with no copay (when provided by an RD). Many commercial plans cover MNT for chronic conditions. The ACA requires coverage of obesity screening and counseling. Coverage for general wellness nutrition counseling varies. Ask your plan specifically about "medical nutrition therapy" coverage and whether a referral or diagnosis code is required. Many dietitians also accept self-pay at reasonable rates.