Why Holistic Nutrition?

My favourite thing about holistic nutrition is the individual approach. No one is put into a box, regardless of their condition. Each person must be treated differently and uniquely because we are all unique individuals. I may have similar symptoms as another person, but how I've developed these symptoms and how I will heal is unique to me. This philosophy is the cornerstone of my nutrition practice.

How did you become a Holistic Nutritionist?

I am an RHN (Registered Holistic Nutritionist) and I received my designation from the Canadian School of Natural Nutrition (CSNN) in Nov 2007. It’s a 1200-hour Natural Nutrition diploma that I completed at the CSNN Toronto location.

Will my benefits cover seeing a holistic nutritionist?

Sometimes. We (holistic nutritionists) are working on getting more and more insurance companies to add our services to their extended health benefits plans. Currently, my services are covered if your benefits package covers “Nutritionist”. Please note I am not a dietician and my services will not be covered if your plan only covers “Dietician”. 

What can I expect in my first appointment?

Your first appointment will be 60 – 90 mins and we’ll discuss, in detail, all of your health concerns and symptoms. We’ll also talk about any hesitations or roadblocks you’ve encountered in your own health journey and we’ll look for unique solutions around them. You’ll leave with written instructions at the end of your appointment, and you can email me anytime with any questions you may have. 

How can I reach you between appointments if I have questions?

Email is always the fastest method to reach me and is my preferred way to communicate between appointments. You will receive an answer much faster via email than by phone. Exceptions can be made if you don’t have access to email. I generally respond to all emails within 2 - 3 business days.

HOW DO YOU TAKE PAYMENT?

I accept cash, cheque, credit cards (Visa or Mastercard), and e-mail money transfers. I pretty much take every form of payment except debit (my credit card swipe machine doesn't take debit). 

Do I need to pay for my session on your website?

No, it's only there for convenience. You're welcome to pay at your session, whatever is easiest for you!

DO YOU WORK WITH CHILDREN IN YOUR PRACTICE?

Yes, I do. I work with children who are dealing with digestive issues or food allergies, and I work with parents who have children with behavioural issues that may be food related. 

Please note – if we need to discuss specific negative behavioural attributes in your child, please come to the appointment alone (without your child). If your child is dealing with specific physical symptoms that they can discuss and articulate (or point to where it hurts), I would love for them to join us for the appointment. 

I'm thinking of becoming a holistic nutritionist, do you have any advice? 

I have THE BEST job in the world! I get to help people everyday by helping to solve their underlying health puzzles. It takes a lot of passion and drive to have a thriving holistic nutrition business, but I believe we all can do it and there’s plenty of room for more nutritionists in most areas. If you’re willing to work hard you can have a job like mine too ☺

I'm a holistic nutritionist; do you offer any mentorship programs?

I do! I offer one-on-one mentoring consults to any up-and-coming nutritionist. We can talk about whatever you’re struggling with and I can help you refine your direction. Or we can talk about marketing, advertising, how to give a great talk, or we can talk through a difficult client case you’re working on. I keep my mentoring rates (hourly) as affordable as possible because I know what it’s like to be just starting out. Email me if you’d like some mentoring!

What are your favourite nutrition books?

My all-time favourite author on nutrition is Michael Pollan. I highly recommend all of his books, especially “In Defense of Food” and “Cooked”. Dr. Gabor Maté’s “When the Body Say’s No” is also a big favourite of mine.

What are your favourite cookbooks?

I’m not a recipe user, so I don’t have any go-to recipe books. I know that sounds weird since I’m a nutritionist…but I just don’t use them. I’m a fly by the seat of my pants kind of cook ☺