FAQ

+ How will you figure out what I need?

I will review your health history and any lab work, diet, current complaints and symptoms, current medications and supplements and medical diagnoses. If we need more information, I may recommend that you have some testing or lab work done through your current doctor, ordered by me, or I can refer you to an appropriate health care provider. With your permission, I may coordinate care with your current health care provider, specialist, or therapist. After a throughout review, I will create a plan for you. I do not have ready-made plans as every person is biochemically different and requires an individual approach. I also consider lifestyle interventions including stress management, sleep and movement. Sometimes we can figure things out quickly, other interventions may require some trial and error to find the best solution for you.

+ Can nutrition really help with health concerns such as anxiety, fatigue and GI issues?

Yes! Our diet has a huge influence on how we feel and even making moderate changes to diet, structure and timing of meals can make a big difference. Stress can also influence and impact the digestive system. That said, as a nutritionist, I do not diagnose health issues. If I suspect that you have a medical condition that requires further investigation or diagnosis by another medical practitioner, I will refer you to one. I have training in and can provide medical nutrition therapy for conditions diagnosed by medical professional.

+ How will you support me as my nutritionist?

I am available via text, phone or email for clients between appointments. I will always get back to you as soon as I am able (within 24 hours usually). I will also help coordinate care with other practitioners if you wish. My background and experience in health care means that I am familiar with different treatment approaches and medical interventions. I care about my clients and I am invested in your success.

+ What should I expect at my first appointment?

Before our first meeting, I will send you an intake form for you to fill out. At our initial meeting, we will go over your health history, current medications and supplements, diet, eating habits, food preferences and dislikes, health concerns, stress levels, sleep and goals you would like to achieve for yourself. Together, we will discuss your priorities and set both short and long-term goals. After our meeting, I will review all of the information and labwork (if you have any) or may suggest that you have some labwork done, if we decide it is necessary. I will review all of the data and come up with a treatment plan and also a meal plan, if you desire one. From there, we will work towards making small changes.

+ Will you tell me everything I need to do at our first meeting?

I focus on making small, incremental changes with my clients to ensure lasting lifestyle changes. I find that most people are overwhelmed with a long list of changes to make at one time and that success comes from focusing on 1 or 2 things at a time, incorporating them into your life and building from there. My job is to provide you with the tools you need to be successful and also to serve as your cheerleader, sounding board and coach to support you. Sometimes, an approach doesn't work and we need to re-assess and make changes because there is not one formula that works for everyone.

+ How many sessions do I need?

I generally like people to plan for at least 4-10 sessions. Often I will see people more frequently when we first begin and then increase time between sessions as you become more confident in the changes and developing sustainable habits. You are never obligated to continue working with me, but my goal is that you will see positive changes in your life and feel empowered and see the changes you want for yourself as we work together.

+ Are you anti-medication or traditional medicine?

Absolutely not. I believe that health care should consider the whole person and look at addressing the root cause of a symptom, and sometimes that can be achieved with diet and lifestyle, and sometimes medication is necessary. There is no shame in using prescription medication. I will often address nutrient deficiencies that can occur as a result of using medication. Everyone is different and the goal should be to find the solution that works for each individual. I coordinate care with both traditional doctors, chiropractors, naturopaths and other care providers at client request.

+ Will I lose weight?

I run a weight-neutral practice, which means that weight-loss is not my main metric for success. I will not prescribe low-calorie diets for the goal of weight loss, as I believe that they are detrimental to your health. I focus on sustainable eating for life tailored for an individual's needs, to feel good in your body, and to help people who have a history of weight cycling or dieting end that habit and have a healthy relationship with food.

+ Do you take insurance?

At this time, I am able to accept United Health Care and Medicare (which only offers coverage for Diabetes and kidney disease). I can also provide asuperbill for you to submit to your insurance provider and my services are covered by most HSA plans.