1. Tell us about your business:
I am a registered dietitian and licensed nutritionist in private practice with over 35 years of experience. I provide one-on-one counseling for anyone 18-years-old and older. I offer nutrition counseling about disease prevention as well as guidance in treating chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, digestive disorders, weight management issues, etc. I believe food is part of any treatment plan, on par with medication and exercise.
My philosophy is to work with a client to set in place the building blocks for a lifetime of healthy eating. There are no gimmicks, quick fixes, or miracle pills provided. A key to this journey is to give information about nutrition that is plain and simple, ready to use. I am also there when you need support and are struggling. I can always work with you to find a new approach, take smaller steps toward change, and hold your hand when things get tough.
I see each client as a unique individual, needing a tailored, comprehensive plan created for you. So, we spend time together. I get to know you. It is important for me to understand your eating style and how it is influenced by outside forces- family, friends, work, life events. And I need to understand internal forces - your own thoughts and actions. I listen to you, learn about your past and current health concerns, dieting attempts, stress levels, and concerns about the future. I become part of your team, joining forces with you and your primary care provider, therapists, and specialists. This is because I see each client as a whole person, not just someone who needs a “diet.” Next, I create a highly individualized healthy lifestyle plan which I see as the start of the journey. It’s the first step; one in which we build upon with each new session.
2. Please tell us what being a business owner means to you and why you became an entrepreneur in the first place?
Being a private practice nutritionist means I can truly meet my client’s needs. Often a client needs extra time, I can do that. Sometimes there are just more questions or the need for more conversation to figure out how to put healthy actions in place. Sometimes, people just need things slowed down so they can absorb it. I can do that since I manage my own schedule. I can also alter my appointment times, to meet schedules of clients.
What’s the best advice you have received in business that you wish to pass on to our readers?
“Quit your job today” was the best advice I ever got, and it was from my husband. He had confidence in my abilities as a nutritionist and backed me 100%. I was afraid to take that step- quit my job, lose my salary, and invest in myself. But it was a risk worth taking. I really love what I do. Helping others is at the core of my being. And setting up my own business allows me to help every day.
3. Are there any resources or tools you’d like to share with other small business owners that have helped you run your business?
Nutrition is what I know and love to do. I am less skilled at the business side of things, so I call on the cavalry to help with billing, advertising, bookkeeping, taxes, etc.
4. What is number one business goal you plan to accomplish over the next year?
To see clients in person! But I hope to keep telehealth as an option for those who need it.
My philosophy is to work with a client to set in place the building blocks for a lifetime of healthy eating. There are no gimmicks, quick fixes, or miracle pills provided.