Frequently Asked Questions
Whether you’re considering your first session or curious about how nutrition counseling actually works, here are the answers clients ask most often.
Working Together
What happens in the initial assessment?
＋
Your first session is a deep conversation about you — your health history, current eating patterns, medical conditions, medications, lifestyle, stress, sleep, and the goals that brought you here. I listen carefully and then we build an initial plan together. You walk away with concrete next steps and a clear sense of how we’ll work.
Are sessions in-person or virtual?
＋
Both. Most counseling sessions happen virtually by secure video, which works well for nearly everyone and makes scheduling easier. In-person options are available for local clients in the Irvine area, and the Pantry & Fridge Audit and Grocery Store Tour are always done in person.
How often should we meet?
＋
It depends on your goals. Most clients start with weekly or every-other-week sessions for the first month or two to build momentum, then transition to monthly check-ins as new habits take hold. We’ll decide together based on what’s working and what you need.
What should I do before our first session?
＋
After you book, you’ll receive intake paperwork including a health history and a short food log. Fill those out honestly — they save us time in session and give me real context. Other than that, come as you are. You don’t need to have it figured out; that’s what we’re here for.
How I Work
Do you work with medical conditions?
＋
Yes. I regularly work with clients managing diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, PCOS, thyroid conditions, IBS and other digestive issues, food allergies and intolerances, and pre- and post-surgery nutrition. If your condition calls for coordination with your physician, I’m glad to collaborate with your care team.
Is this about weight loss?
＋
Sometimes, but not always. Some clients come for weight management, others for sports performance, energy, gut health, pregnancy nutrition, managing a diagnosis, or simply learning how to eat in a way that feels sustainable. I take a HAES-informed approach — meeting you where you are — and weight is one possible focus, not the assumed goal.
Will you give me a meal plan?
＋
If a meal plan would help you, yes. But for most clients the bigger win is learning how to make good choices flexibly — reading your body, planning your week, navigating restaurants and travel, and building meals from what’s in your kitchen. I’d rather teach you to fish than hand you a rigid spreadsheet.
What’s a Pantry & Fridge Audit?
＋
A 60-minute home visit where we go through what’s in your kitchen together. We look at labels, talk about what’s serving you and what isn’t, and make a plan for smarter stocking. It’s one of the most practical and eye-opening sessions clients do — because the food in your house shapes the decisions you make when you’re tired or hungry.
Logistics
Do you take insurance?
＋
I don’t bill insurance directly, but I can provide a superbill that you can submit to your insurance company for possible reimbursement. Many clients find their plan covers a portion of nutrition counseling, especially when referred by a physician. Check with your insurer using CPT codes 97802 and 97803.
Do you offer discounts?
＋
Yes. I offer discounted rates for Ukrainian refugee families, reduced pricing for uninsured clients, and a sliding scale for anyone committing to 3 or more sessions. Please reach out directly and we’ll find a way to work together.
What’s your cancellation policy?
＋
I ask for 24 hours’ notice to cancel or reschedule without charge. Life happens — if something truly urgent comes up, reach out and we’ll figure it out.
How do I get started?
＋
Book your initial assessment through the booking link, or reach out through the contact page with any questions first. Once you’re booked, you’ll get everything you need to prepare.
Let’s Talk
I’m happy to answer anything before you book. Reach out anytime — or schedule a free 15-minute discovery call.