Each dietitian works differently. This is how I coach my clients.
Listen:
You are your own expert. You know how your body works. Whilst I may have insight into how bodies work and how nutrition influences so many facets of your health, it’s important for me to understand you and your needs before anything else.
I utilise counselling techniques like motivational interviewing, supportive listening, and elements of cognitive behavioural therapy in my sessions. I am really passionate about creating a safe space for my clients where sessions feel like you’re talking with a trusted friend.
Inclusive, No Judgement Zone:
To get to know you the best I can, it’s important for me to ask questions. This is a non-judgement zone. Everyone has their own experiences, histories, and stories. If you don’t feel comfortable sharing some of these things, then I welcome that too.
Some questions I may ask:
What your current goals are
Any medical conditions you may have
What a typical day of eating looks like for you
How you view your skills in preparing and cooking food
Whether you have any food aversions or allergies/intolerances
What exercise and movement you enjoy
No Such Thing as Failure:
Mistakes or hiccups are learning opportunities. One of the purposes of follow up appointments is to chat through and troubleshoot areas or goals that have been a struggle. We will go through what challenges we had since the last catch up and discuss how we can approach that challenge in the future.
Educate:
Depending on what your goals are will determine what information I provide in terms of education. Some sessions I may listen more, some may be more conversational, and others I may be talking a lot more and provide some more information. It is very much based on what concerns, questions, or things we are addressing in that session.
Homework:
Each session, we set goals and tasks to complete before the next. These goals are often small. Small consistent changes result in big results.
Think a dietitian may be something you’re after?
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