What to expect when you go to a dietitian

Most patients report being nervous for their first session. This is NORMAL and to be expected. Seeing a dietitian is a big step in your recovery from disordered eating, managing your medical condition, and ditching diet culture. We want you to know we are right by your side to guide you on this journey.

During the first appointment, you and your dietitian will explore your past medical history, lifestyle, eating habits, diet history, relationship with food, and barriers to meeting your nutrition-related goals.

The first part of the session is devoted to collecting information on your past and getting to know you, while the second part of the session is focused on education, planning, and goal setting.

Frequently Asked Questions

We’ve answered some of the most common questions below to help you better understand our process, services, and what to expect.

Getting Started

How do I get started?

Fill out our Request an Appointment form and our intake coordinator will reach out to learn more about your needs, answer any questions, and help match you with the dietitian who best fits your needs

Do I need a referral?

No. A referral is not required to schedule with us.

How do I know which dietitian is right for me?

Our intake process helps match you with a dietitian based on your goals, age, specialty needs, insurance, and availability.

How soon can I get scheduled?

Availability varies by provider. Our intake coordinator will help review options and find the best fit based on your needs and timeline.

Do you offer virtual appointments?

Yes. We offer virtual appointments for clients located in states where our dietitians are licensed.

Do you offer in person appointments?

Yes. In person availability depends on the provider and office location.

I do not live in Illinois or Missouri. Can I still receive a virtual appointment?

Yes, in many cases. Our dietitians are able to provide virtual nutrition counseling to clients located in the following states:

Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Missouri, Texas.

If you are located in another state and are interested in working with us, feel free to reach out. We are happy to confirm whether services may be available.

What do I need to know before my first appointment?

Come with an open mind and know that we’re here to support you. There is no “perfect” way to prepare. Your first session is simply a starting point for us to get to know you and your goals.

What if I’m nervous about starting?

That’s completely normal. Many clients feel nervous before their first appointment. Our goal is to create a supportive, nonjudgmental space where you can feel comfortable showing up exactly as you are.

Insurance & Payment

Do you accept insurance?

Yes. We are currently in network with BCBS, UHC, Aetna, Cigna, and Medica.

At this time, we are not in network with any Medicaid, Medicare, or Marketplace Exchange plans.

How do I know what my insurance will cover?

Coverage and benefits vary by individual plan. For more detailed information about insurance coverage, private pay options, and how to check your benefits, please visit our Insurance & Rates page.

Can I use my HSA or FSA card?

In many cases, yes. We recommend checking with your HSA or FSA provider to confirm eligibility.

Appointments

What happens during the first appointment?

Your first session is a chance for your dietitian to get to know you. We’ll review your history, current concerns, goals, and begin creating a plan that feels supportive and individualized to your needs.

How often will I meet with my dietitian?

This depends on your goals, needs, and level of support. Many clients start with weekly sessions and adjust over time.

How long are appointments?

Initial appointments are 90 minutes. Follow up appointments are typically 60 minutes.

Can I switch dietitians if it’s not the right fit?

Yes. Finding the right fit matters. If needed, we’re happy to help you transition to another provider on our team.

Can a parent, partner, or support person join sessions?

Yes. Support person involvement is welcome when appropriate and may be especially helpful for children, adolescents, and some adult clients.

What We Treat

What ages do you work with?

Our team works with children, adolescents, and adults. Some providers may specialize in specific age groups or areas of care.

Do I need a diagnosis to work with a dietitian?

No. You do not need a diagnosis to work with our team. We support clients with a wide range of nutrition concerns, whether you have a formal diagnosis or are simply looking for guidance and support.

What do you help with?

We support clients with a wide range of nutrition concerns, including eating disorders, disordered eating, ARFID, body image concerns, chronic dieting, sports nutrition, PMOS (formerly PCOS), GI concerns, diabetes, and general nutrition support.

Do you treat eating disorders?

Yes. Our team works with individuals at many stages of recovery and across a range of eating disorder presentations.

Do you work with ARFID?

Yes. We support clients with ARFID using individualized, compassionate, and evidence based approaches.

Do you work alongside therapists, doctors, or other providers?

Yes. With your permission, we often collaborate with your care team to provide more comprehensive support.

Do you support intuitive eating?

Yes. With your permission, we often collaborate with your care team to provide more comprehensive support.

Policies

What is your cancellation policy?

We require at least 48 hours notice for cancellations or reschedules.

Is there a late cancellation or no show fee?

Late cancellations and no shows are subject to a $130 fee.

Do I need a card on file?

Yes. A card on file is required for all clients.

What happens if my payment method fails?

If a payment is declined, returned, or disputed, a $35 administrative fee may be charged. Any outstanding balances must be resolved before future appointments can be scheduled.

Insurance

Branz Nutrition Counseling is currently in network with:

BCBS
UHC
Aetna
Cigna
Medica

At this time, we are not in network with any Medicaid, Medicare, or Marketplace Exchange plans.

Being in network does not guarantee coverage or full reimbursement. Benefits and out of pocket costs are determined by your specific insurance plan.

Coverage for nutrition counseling can vary depending on your individual plan. This may include deductibles, visit limits, referral requirements, or prior authorization requirements.

The best way to get the most accurate and up to date information about your benefits is to contact your insurance company directly.

To make this easier, we’ve included a simple insurance benefits form to help guide you through checking your deductible, visit limits, referral requirements, and other important details with your insurance company: Insurance Benefit Check form

Private Pay

Private pay is available for clients who choose not to use insurance or who are out of network with our practice.

For the most up to date information regarding private pay rates and appointment options, we encourage you to contact our office directly. Our intake coordinator is happy to answer questions and help you determine the best fit for your needs.

Superbills

If we are out of network with your insurance plan, we can provide a superbill for you to submit for possible reimbursement.

Please note that reimbursement is not guaranteed and depends on your individual insurance plan.

HSA / FSA

In many cases, HSA and FSA cards can be used for nutrition counseling services. We recommend checking with your provider to confirm eligibility.

Questions?

If you have questions about scheduling, payment options, or getting started, our intake coordinator is happy to help.