Question 1

What is an eating disorder dietitian?

Accepted Answer

An eating disorder dietitian is a registered dietitian with specialized training in treating conditions like anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, and ARFID. We use evidence-based approaches like Medical Nutrition Therapy to help you heal your relationship with food.

Question 2

Do I need a referral to see a dietitian at Behavioral Nutrition?

Accepted Answer

No, you do not need a referral to become a patient at Behavioral Nutrition. You can contact us directly to verify your insurance and schedule your first appointment.

Question 3

What happens at a first nutrition appointment for an eating disorder?

Accepted Answer

During your first appointment, we will discuss your medical history, current eating patterns, and recovery goals. We focus on building trust and understanding your unique needs without judgment or pressure.

Question 4

Does insurance cover eating disorder nutrition therapy?

Accepted Answer

Yes, most major insurance plans cover Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) for eating disorders. Behavioral Nutrition verifies your specific benefits before your first session.

Question 5

What insurance plans does Behavioral Nutrition accept?

Accepted Answer

We accept most major insurance plans including BlueCross BlueShield, Aetna, Cigna, UnitedHealthcare, Harvard Pilgrim, and Wellsense. Contact us with your insurance details, and we will verify your coverage.

Question 6

How does medical nutrition therapy billing work?

Accepted Answer

Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) is billed directly to your insurance provider using specific diagnosis and treatment codes related to your eating disorder. We handle the claims process for you.

Question 7

Can I do eating disorder nutrition counseling via telehealth?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we offer secure, HIPAA-compliant telehealth nutrition counseling. Telehealth provides the same evidence-based care as in-person sessions from the comfort of your home.

Question 8

What states do you offer telehealth eating disorder treatment in?

Accepted Answer

We provide telehealth eating disorder nutrition therapy to patients in Massachusetts, New York, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Connecticut, Florida, South Carolina, and North Carolina.

Question 9

What is HAES (Health at Every Size)?

Accepted Answer

Health at Every Size (HAES) is a weight-neutral approach to health that focuses on healthy behaviors rather than weight loss. It promotes body respect, intuitive eating, and joyful movement.

Question 10

Will I be weighed at my appointments?

Accepted Answer

No, we do not require blind or open weigh-ins unless it is medically necessary for your specific treatment plan. Our focus is on your behaviors and relationship with food, not a number on the scale.

Question 11

What does weight-neutral eating disorder treatment mean?

Accepted Answer

Weight-neutral treatment means our primary goal is healing your relationship with food and your body, rather than trying to change your body size. We focus on physical and mental well-being.

Question 12

What is intuitive eating?

Accepted Answer

Intuitive eating is a non-diet framework that helps you tune into your body's natural hunger and fullness cues. It involves making peace with food and rejecting diet culture.

Question 13

Can intuitive eating help with eating disorder recovery?

Accepted Answer

Yes, intuitive eating is often a long-term goal in eating disorder recovery. While structured eating may be necessary first, intuitive eating helps you eventually rebuild trust with your body.

Question 14

What is ARFID (Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder)?

Accepted Answer

ARFID is an eating disorder characterized by highly selective eating or a lack of interest in food, often driven by sensory sensitivities or a fear of adverse consequences like choking, rather than body image concerns.

Question 15

How do you treat ARFID in teens and adults?

Accepted Answer

We treat ARFID using a gentle, exposure-based approach to expand food variety. We work collaboratively to address sensory challenges and reduce food-related anxiety without pressure.

Question 16

How does a dietitian help with Binge Eating Disorder (BED)?

Accepted Answer

A dietitian helps treat BED by ensuring adequate nourishment throughout the day to prevent biological urges to binge. We also work on identifying emotional triggers and breaking the restriction cycle.

Question 17

Will you put me on a diet to stop binge eating?

Accepted Answer

No, we will never prescribe a restrictive diet to treat binge eating. Restrictive dieting often triggers binge eating. Instead, we use a HAES-aligned approach to help you find food freedom.

Question 18

How does nutrition therapy help with anorexia recovery?

Accepted Answer

Nutrition therapy for anorexia focuses on medical stabilization, nutritional rehabilitation, and safely restoring nourishment. We provide structured meal plans and support to overcome food fears.

Question 19

What is atypical anorexia?

Accepted Answer

Atypical anorexia involves all the restrictive behaviors and intense fear of weight gain seen in anorexia nervosa, but the individual's weight is not considered "underweight." It is equally severe and requires the same level of care.

Question 20

Do you work with therapists and doctors during treatment?

Accepted Answer

Yes, eating disorder recovery requires a collaborative team. Our dietitians communicate regularly with your therapist, primary care physician, and psychiatrist to ensure cohesive care.

Inpatient Clinic Services

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Collaborative Care Team

Comprehensive Assessments

Intensive Support

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