Choosing the Right Online Nutritionist: Your Guide to Expert Nutrition Support
“Feeling at ease, supported, and seen, online nutrition care that fits into your everyday life, from the comfort of home.”
Before diving into how to choose the right online nutrition professional, it’s essential to understand the difference between a nutritionist and a dietitian. While both can offer valuable nutrition advice, a dietitian is a qualified health professional who has completed formal university training, including supervised clinical placements. Dietitians possess the highest level of nutrition education among health professionals, ensuring they are well-equipped to provide comprehensive care. A comprehensive nutritional assessment is essential for addressing all aspects of your health and providing you with thorough, one-stop support.
When seeking nutritionist or dietitian services, it is important to understand the referral processes, eligibility criteria, and available funding options to make informed decisions. Referral processes may involve obtaining a recommendation from your general practitioner (GP) or other healthcare providers, which can be necessary for accessing certain services or receiving rebates. Eligibility criteria determine whether you qualify for specific programs or funding, such as Medicare, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), or private health insurance rebates. Being aware of these factors ensures you can choose the right professional for your needs while maximising financial support and access to quality nutrition care. Setting achievable goals in your nutrition and health plans is also essential for long-term success.
Always check whether the nutrition professional you choose is recognised and eligible for coverage. For more information about these processes, please contact your provider or inquire further.
Understanding the Difference: Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD) vs Nutritionist
You might be wondering, are a nutritionist and a dietitian the same? While all Accredited Practising Dietitians (APDs) are qualified dietitians, not all dietitians hold APD status. To understand more, please refer to our page Dietitian: Transform Your Health with Medical-Grade Nutrition by an Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD)
In Australia, university-qualified nutritionists can work in private practice, public health, or the food industry, and may hold professional memberships, such as those with the Nutrition Society of Australia. However, they are not eligible to provide services under Medicare, the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA), the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS), or private health insurance rebates. Only APDs who have completed an accredited dietetics degree (Bachelor's or Master's), including clinical training and supervised practice, and who meet ongoing credentialing requirements through Dietitians Australia, are eligible for provider numbers to access these systems. An APD holds a protected title and is recognised by the Australian Government and private health insurers as qualified to provide clinical nutrition services with rebates or subsidies.
Importantly, holding a Bachelor of Health Science (Nutrition) or Bachelor of Nutrition Science alone, even from a university, does not qualify someone for APD status or a provider number. These graduates may work as nutritionists but must operate as private fee-for-service providers without access to Medicare, DVA, NDIS, or private health rebates.
In summary:
Dietitian:
University-qualified in nutrition and dietetics
Can apply for Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD) status through Dietitians Australia
Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD):
A dietitian who has completed an accredited dietetics degree (Bachelor's or Master's) with clinical training and supervised practice
Has met national standards and credentialing through Dietitians Australia
Accredited Practising Dietitians are qualified Medical Nutrition Therapists.
Eligible for Medicare Chronic Disease Management plans (with GP referral), DVA, NDIS, and private health rebates
Holds a protected title recognised by the Australian Government and private health insurers
Can obtain a provider number
Nutritionist:
The title is not legally regulated in Australia
Qualification levels vary, from short course certificates to university degrees (e.g., Bachelor of Health Science [Nutrition], Bachelor of Nutrition Science)
Even with a university health science or nutrition degree, you are not eligible for APD status or a provider number
May be eligible for professional memberships (e.g., Nutrition Society of Australia)
Works as a private fee-for-service provider, with no access to Medicare, DVA, NDIS, or private health rebates
Both dietitians and nutritionists work with a wide range of individuals with diverse needs.
For further reading, check out the blog, Dietitian vs Nutritionist: What’s the difference?
Qualifications and Rebates: What You Need to Know
In Australia, only dietitians with APD status are recognised by Medicare, the Department of Veterans’ Affairs (DVA), NDIS, and private health insurance providers. Nutritionists may or may not have formal qualifications or clinical training, so it’s essential to select the right professional for your specific health needs. Every person has different needs and health goals; therefore, it is essential to seek a professional who can provide services tailored to meet those needs.
Many private health insurance policies cover nutritionist consultations only if the nutrition professional has a recognised provider number. In Australia, APDs who hold this provider number are eligible for private health insurance rebates. These rebates help make nutrition services more affordable for clients, ensuring greater access to cost-effective dietary advice.
Nutritionists without accredited qualifications or a provider number usually do not qualify for these rebates. Therefore, it’s important to confirm with your insurance provider whether the nutrition professional you choose is recognised and eligible for coverage.
It’s also important to be aware of your eligibility for healthcare plans, available rebates, and the referral process when deciding between a nutritionist and a registered dietitian.
What to Expect from Nutritionist and Dietitian Consultations
Nutritionist Consultation
Focuses on general healthy eating, wellness, and lifestyle advice, with an emphasis on the central role of food in supporting nutrition, making healthy food choices, and fostering a positive relationship with food
May cover topics like improving eating patterns, meal planning, or weight management, and can include guidance on selecting the right foods and providing healthy recipes to support your goals
Does not provide medical nutrition therapy (MNT), meaning they cannot treat or manage diagnosed health conditions
Dietitian Consultation by an APD
Provides evidence-based medical nutrition therapy (MNT)
Includes a comprehensive assessment of medical history, medications, pathology, symptoms, and health goals
Offers clinical care for digestive health, chronic health conditions and complex health conditions such as diabetes, PCOS, IBD, coeliac disease, heart disease, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or disordered eating; consultations can be tailored for different age groups, including older people
Collaborates with you to improve your nutrition knowledge and develop strategies that suit your lifestyle, food preferences, health goals, and medical needs, such as reducing blood sugar levels for diabetes management
Facilitates and guides the implementation of evidence-based diet approaches, such as the low FODMAP diet, and supports clients who may be struggling with complex health or nutrition challenges
In short, a dietitian consultation includes everything covered in a nutritionist consultation, plus clinical care, medical nutrition therapy, and specialised strategies for managing diagnosed health conditions.
How to Choose the Right Nutrition Professional
When choosing, check:
Credentials: Look for APD status and membership with Dietitians Australia
Expertise: Do they have experience relevant to your health needs?
Approach: Do they offer a kind, supportive, and personalised, evidence-based care?
Support: Will they provide ongoing support and follow-up?
Rebates: Are their services eligible for private health insurance rebates?
Choose a nutrition expert with the right credentials, expertise, and a kind approach to provide evidence-based, personalised care and eligible rebates where applicable.
Ready for ongoing support? Join our program or community today for personalised guidance and encouragement.
Benefits of Online Consultations
“Expert support that meets you where you are, plus simple tools, supportive check-ins, and practical steps through the Guided Package that helps you turn small changes into real, lasting progress.”
Online Dietitian Consultations bring healthcare to you, meeting you where you are, whether at home, work, or on the go. Dietitians Australia's position statement on telehealth supports telehealth as a safe, effective, and accessible means of delivering dietetic services, ensuring the same quality of care as face-to-face consultations. Research shows that telehealth consultations are just as effective as in-person visits for dietetic care, providing evidence-based support for choosing online options.
Telehealth enhances access to expert nutrition support for individuals in rural, remote, or underserved areas, as well as those with mobility or time constraints, thereby supporting diverse communities by addressing their specific needs. Research supports the effectiveness of telehealth for dietetic care, making it a reliable choice for many. It also enables continuity of care, flexible scheduling, and personalised nutrition advice tailored to your unique needs, while maintaining privacy, confidentiality, and professional standards.
Ultimately, the choice between online and in-person dietitian consultations depends on your individual lifestyle, location, schedule, and preferences. Get involved in your own health and nutrition journey by exploring the benefits of online support.
Additional Advantages of Telehealth Services
Lower the stress of fitting health care into your schedule
Access expert support with just a click
Provide continuous care, even when travelling or unwell
Accessible accountability, to help you stay engaged and move forward with your health goals long term
Access to care in rural or remote areas where local services are limited
Provide flexible scheduling around work, family, and life commitments
Convenience that allows you to attend consultations from the comfort of your home
Understanding Your Nutrition Needs
Every individual has unique nutrition needs shaped by their lifestyle, health status, and personal goals. At Tailored Dietetics, our focus is in helping you understand what your body truly needs to thrive and encouraging you to learn more about your unique nutrition needs. Whether your focus is on weight management, enhancing your overall wellness, or addressing specific health concerns, our professional guidance can help you navigate the often complex world of nutrition.
Through convenient online consultations, you can access professional advice from the comfort of your home, making it easier than ever to take control of your health. When working one-on-one with a dietitian, the goal is to identify your individual needs, help you break unhealthy eating patterns, and create a personalised plan that supports your journey toward improved well-being.
Specialised Nutrition Support
“Ready when you are, book your online consult and take the first step toward feeling clearer, stronger, and more energised.”
At Tailored Dietetics, we’re dedicated to providing personalised nutrition care that aligns with your individual needs, health goals, and lifestyle. Whether you’re seeking support for weight concerns, chronic condition management, digestive or hormonal health, or simply aiming to enhance your overall wellbeing, we offer evidence-based services designed to help you create real, sustainable change.
We offer both standard consultations and flexible packages, allowing you to choose the level of support that best suits your needs and preferences. For those with private health insurance, rebates may be available through participating funds, making access to nutrition care more affordable.
Our approach is grounded in current research and delivered by Accredited Practising Dietitians (APDs), ensuring you receive practical, supportive care tailored to your goals. There are no fads, no quick fixes - just real progress that fits your life.
For more information and resources on nutrition support, please refer to www.tailoreddietetics.com.au.
Conclusion: Take the First Step Toward Better Health Today
Choosing the right online nutrition professional is one of the most meaningful steps you can take for your health. Understanding the difference between a nutritionist and a dietitian ensures that you’re making an informed and confident choice.
At Tailored Dietetics, we cut through the noise to offer clear, evidence-based, and practical care, delivered by Accredited Practising Dietitians (APDs) who meet the highest standards of training and professional development in Australia.
Our online consultations offer flexibility, accessibility, and continuity of care, whether you’re managing a chronic condition, improving your digestive or hormonal health, or simply seeking to build healthier, more sustainable habits. With personalised advice, collaborative support, and a focus on your unique needs and goals, we’re here to help you turn small steps into lasting, meaningful change.
Whether you’re booking a one-off consultation or joining our Small Steps, Big Changes Guided Package, you can feel confident knowing you’re supported by a team that listens, understands, and tailors care just for you.
Ready to get started? Book your online consultation today and take the first step toward feeling stronger, clearer, and more energised in your body.
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact our team for more information or support. We’re here to help and look forward to assisting you on your health journey.
Key Takeaways
Not all nutritionists are dietitians; APDs have the highest level of training and can provide medical nutrition therapy for complex health needs.
APDs are eligible for Medicare, DVA, NDIS, and private health rebates, making their services more accessible and cost-effective.
Online consultations are just as effective as in-person consultations, offering flexibility, privacy, and convenience, regardless of your location.
Tailored care matters. At Tailored Dietetics, you’ll receive personalised, evidence-based advice that fits your body, lifestyle, and goals.
Extra support is available; our Guided Package offers tools, resources, and between-session check-ins to help you stay on track.
Lena Anson-Smith, Accredited Dietitian & Nutritionist
Lena helps busy women who feel tired, bloated, or stuck in their bodies reconnect with what they truly need.
With a former career as a busy businesswoman in the city and her own experiences with hormonal imbalance, she now runs a flexible, online dietetics practice that supports women in building energy, easing digestion, and feeling confident and balanced through Mediterranean-inspired nutrition strategies, practical tools, and tailored plans that fit real life.
Want to feel more energised, clear, and confident in your body?
What’s Next?
Understand more about an APD, Dietitian: Transform Your Health with Medical-Grade Nutrition by an Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD)
Read our Blog for more on a Dietitian vs nutritionist: What's the difference?
Discover what makes our approach unique on the 'Our Difference' page or explore our packages.