Frequently Asked Questions
What happens during the initial assessment?
The initial consultations provides an opportunity for me to get to know you and best understand your situation and goals. We talk about your medical history, weight history, eating behaviors, dietary intake, and more. At the end of the initial assessment, you will leave with a plan and goals for the follow up sessions. This session is about 60 minutes.
What happens during the follow-up sessions?
During follow-up sessions, we will review your progress, celebrate your successes, and work through the challenges. Together, we will continue to work through your nutrition plan and goals. These sessions are 45 minutes and may be weekly, biweekly, or monthly, depending on the level of support that is best for you.
What if I am not so sure?
Seeing a dietitian can be nerve-racking. Or maybe you’re on the fence. I offer a free introductory meeting. It will give us about 10 minutes to talk through some of your needs and preferences and see if we would be a good fit for each other. Contact me to schedule.
Will you help me lose weight?
We live in a world that focuses on weight, body size, appearance, and health. The desire to lose weight is understandable based on what you see in the media and what you've been told both others. Unfortunately, many people lose weight through restricting and dieting that many times leads to a constant cycle of gaining and losing. This can affect body image and self esteem, leading to disordered eating and/or a poor relationship with food. Nutrition appointments are not weight loss specific, and instead focuses on overall health, an efficient metabolism, a positive relationship with the self and food, and more.
How do virtual (telehealth) sessions work?
Hopefully we all have become more fluent in virtual work these days. I use a HIPAA-compliant telehealth platform to allow us to video chat securely. I just ask that you make sure you are in a private space with working internet. When you set up for your first appointment, you will receive an email with forms to fill out prior to the appointment as well as the link to access the appointment.
Do you accept insurance?
Currently, I accept Aetna and BCBS insurance. I am out of network with all other insurances which means the full fee for service is due at the time of the appointment. Upon request, I can provide you with the documentation – a superbill – that you can submit to your insurance company for potential reimbursement. I cannot guarantee my services will be covered.
You can ask your insurance company ahead of time to know what they will cover.
What do I need to do before my first session?
Upon scheduling your first session, you will receive an email with instructions on how to gain access to the client portal. You will be sent forms to complete prior to your appointment.
What is the difference between a registered dietitian and a nutritionist?
A registered dietitian (RD or RDN) completes at least a bachelor’s degree in Nutrition, completes 1200+ hours of supervised hands-on practice, and passes a national exam. The dietitian is required to keep up with required continuing education credits. Dietitians are qualified to administer Medical Nutrition Therapy which is nutrition care for different disease states. A nutritionist can vary in the amount of training they receive.