Frequently Asked Questions
What to expect from an appointment?
Initial appointments will be a deep dive into your background: why you have come to see me, medical history, home-life and a diet-history. Diet-histories can vary: we can verbally discuss what an average day looks like for you and you are also welcome to bring in a 3 day food diary. Some people, especially those who have struggled with disordered eating, find writing a 3 day food diary very stressful. It is perfectly fine for us to discuss this “in the moment” during our consultation. I can navigate this with you.
The latter part of the consultation will be focused on you goals. We’ll agree what is manageable to achieve by the next appointment and how you might go about achieving this.
Review appointments are focused on your goals and how you have managed with them. We can use this space to either set new goals or discuss how to support you with any barriers identified. This is a shame-free space.
What is a dietitian?
Dietitians are regulated health care professionals who are trained in the science of nutrition in combination with physiology and the psychosocial influences of food choices.
Why does this matter? Regulation means we are legally bound by professional code of conduct which ensures that our practice is evidenced-based, safe and patient-centred. Secondly, it is important that we are trained to treat your nutritional condition from clinical aspect, in addition to an understanding of the complex psychosocial drivers that influence the food we eat. This ensures you receive support that is tailored to your whole-self.
Will a dietitian put me on a "diet"?
No. We are not here to put people on restrictive diets. Our focus is health and how food can support you to achieve your health goals.
Meal plans can be provided if they are appropriate for the goal and condition, however often general guidance to follow can support you more effectively as this empowers you with knowledge rather than rigidity.
How long might I work with a dietitian?
In short: for as long as you want / need.
The timeframe is dependent on you and your condition. Some people may need acute short-term intervention, whereas others will need time to implement changes and see me less frequently over a longer-period. Some may also just come once! The goal of our practice is to empower you to have the knowledge and ability to not need me anymore.
What is Health at Every Size (HAES®)?
HAES ® uses evidence to illustrate the damaging effects of restrictive yo-yo dieting, and how hyper-fixation on weight can lead us away from our body’s intuitive guidance on hunger / fullness (…and ironically then often leading to future weight gain!).
HAES® encourages body acceptance and body neutrality. More can be found here.
Why affordable / low cost appointments?
I believe that business should and can be a force for good. Affordable pricing is paramount to ensure that health inequalities aren’t further exacerbated. In time I hope the business is able to offer more low-cost and free spaces to those in need.