How to Become a Nutrition Counselor
Nutritional counselors can work in hospitals, schools, nursing homes and rehab facilities, promoting healthy eating, and helping to manage disease through proper nutrition. There are opportunities for trained nutritionists in industry, as food manufacturers become increasingly interested in promoting the healthy aspect of their products. Nutritionists can also work in private practice offering consultation services to clients, sports teams, supermarkets and other businesses. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for nutritionists in 2008 was $50,590. Future employment in the sector is expected to grow at around 9 percent to 2018.
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Instructions
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Obtain a bachelor's degree in dietetics, food and nutrition or a related area. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2008, there were 279 bachelor's degree programs and 18 master's programs around the country approved by the American Dietetic Association (see Resources).
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Investigate the requirements of your state on how to become licensed. Thirty-three states require nutritionists to gain a license, while 12 require certification, and one seeks registration. You can usually find out from your state's Department of Public Health.
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Sit for an exam, if you are in a state that requires licensure. Many states use the exam administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration, part of the American Dietetic Association. This exam includes questions on diagnosis, intervention and monitoring skills in a nutrition management plan, food service systems, and counseling and communication.
You will also normally be asked to pay a fee to gain your state license.
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Complete coursework required by the American Dietetic Association if you wish to begin the process of gaining credentialing as a Registered Dietitian. While not necessary to begin practicing, the credential will help advance your career as a nutrition counselor.
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Complete an internship required by the association. You must do this at an ADA-accredited institution--usually either a health care facility, food service company or community agency. This is usually between six months and one year.
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Sit for the final exam to gain the Registered Dietitian credential. To maintain this status, you must complete 75 or more credit hours in continuing education every five years.
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Tips & Warnings
Beware of bogus credentialing organizations. According to Quackwatch a body called the American Association of Nutritional Consultants offers a professional-sounding membership, but requires no actual expertise to join.
References
Resources
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