As dietitians, it can feel overwhelming to sort through the noise as the telehealth landscape for dietitians is changing fast. Suddenly, everywhere you look, there are new companies like Fay, Nourish, Berry Street, and more, promising to connect dietitians with clients, covered by insurance. These companies are increasing access to dietitian services, and raising awareness of the benefits of working with an RD. But, what does it actually look like to work for them? We surveyed 115 RDs to understand their perspectives and what it could mean for you: your income, flexibility, autonomy, and career satisfaction.
Quick Jump
How We Collected This Data
We’ve seen countless threads and conversations online where dietitians share their experiences working with telehealth companies, but it’s usually scattered across forums, Facebook groups, and Reddit threads. We wanted to pull many of those voices together in one place, so dietitians can get a clearer picture of what it’s actually like to work with these companies. So here’s what we did:
- We created a survey and posted it across various dietitian groups on Facebook, and LinkedIn, asking current and former dietitian employees/contractors to provide feedback on their experience.
- Our aim was to get >100 responses, with feedback provided on a diverse number of companies. We received 105 responses before the deadline date.
- We’ve compiled the feedback and summarized it below.
Please note that none of the information provided is based on our subjective opinion, but simply restating what dietitians have noted as important. We acknowledge that some companies received more responses than others, and have included that raw data, so you can interpret the information accordingly.
Our intention is not to tell you what’s “right” or “wrong,” but to give you insight into real-world experiences. This way, you can make informed decisions that best fit your career values and goals, whether you’re looking for stability, freedom, growth, or simply the best way to care for clients without burning out.
We want to keep this blog up-to-date, and as we know, companies change often, so if you notice that any of the info may have changed recently, please email hello@dietitiansuccesscenter.com and we will make adjustments accordingly.
In this blog, for each company, we will cover what we learned about from our surveys regarding:
- How many survey responses we received
- Employment status: contractor or employee
- Compensation details
- Onboarding process/length
- Typical client volume
- Client no-show/cancellation policies
- Additional benefits beyond pay
- Pros and critiques/limitations
- Would you recommend this company to a colleague?
Questions to Ask Before Joining a Large Telehealth Company
If you’re considering working with a company like Fay, Nourish, or Berry Street, it’s worth going beyond the job posting. Here are some key questions to ask during the interview or onboarding process:
Compensation & Workload
- Am I being hired as an employee (W-2) or a contractor (1099)?
- How is pay structured – hourly, salary, or per session?
- What’s the typical hourly rate and/or average monthly income for dietitians on the platform?
- How many clients per week is expected, and can I control my caseload? What happens in the case of slow times and in times of high client loads? Overtime? Administrative pay?
- Are there unpaid tasks (documentation, training, outreach) outside of client hours?
- What happens if a client no-shows or comes late? How does that affect my pay and am I expected to reschedule them?
Autonomy & Clinical Practice
- Do I have freedom to individualize care, or am I expected to follow a specific protocol?
- What is the company’s view on nutrition care? (I.e. Vegetarian, Weight Neutrality, etc. – also explore website and advertising)
- How are clients matched with dietitians? Do I have any say in who I see? What happens if I feel a client is not a good fit for me (and will I be penalized for this)?
- Can I practice only in my niche/specialty, or do I need to see all types of cases?
- Can I use my own resources and client handouts? What internal resources and handouts does your company have?
Professional Development & Support
- Is there onboarding or mentorship for new hires? What does this process look like – both for nutrition counseling skills and for technology/platform support?
- What kind of ongoing support exists (tech support, clinical supervision, peer groups, mental health guidance for referring clients to)?
- Are there opportunities for growth within the company? If so, what could that look like?
- How does the credentialing process work within the company? Do I need to be licensed in multiple states? Will I be reimbursed for state licensure applications and renewal fees?
Benefits & Flexibility
- Are there benefits (health insurance, PTO, CEU reimbursement)?
- Am I allowed to maintain my own private practice or other side work?
Overview - Insurance Credentialing and State Licensure for Telehealth Companies
As part of the blog, we discuss insurance credentialing so let’s go through an overview of what this means. Getting “credentialed” is the way insurance companies verify your qualifications and formally contract with you as an in-network provider.
Here’s a breakdown of the typical steps:
- Obtain Your Professional Credentials: To be eligible, dietitians must already hold the RD/RDN credential (earned through an ACEND-accredited program, supervised practice, and passing the national exam) and stay current with continuing education requirements. Most payers will also require you to have:
- An NPI number
- State licensure (where applicable)
- An EIN (tax ID)
- Liability/Malpractice insurance
- Complete a CAQH Application: The Council for Affordable Quality Healthcare (CAQH) keeps a centralized provider profile that most insurance companies use to verify your credentials. Completing and maintaining this application is a key step before you can apply to be an in-network provider.
- Submit Applications to Insurance Payers: Once your CAQH profile is live, you’ll need to apply to each insurance company individually (in some cases, you’ll need to find out if they’re accepting new dietitians). You’ll fill out their credentialing forms and supply any additional documentation they request (mostly, they are sourcing information from your CAQH profile). This is often the longest part of the process depending on how many insurance companies you want to be in-network with. Each requires their own application and has their own timeline.
- Credentialing Committee Review: From there, the insurance company’s credentialing committee reviews your CAQH and individual application. This process can take up to 90 days (sometimes longer). If approved, you’ll receive a contract and become an in-network provider with that payer.
The Good News: Telehealth Platforms Can Help
If you join a telehealth company, you likely don’t have to go through the entire insurance credentialing process on your own. Each platform manages it slightly differently, but in general, they contract directly with insurance companies and then bring you into their network. In this case, dietitians don’t need to separately apply to each insurer; instead, they join the telehealth platform, which already has contracts with insurance payers. The dietitian benefits by being considered in-network through the telehealth platform’s agreements.
The “Bottleneck:” State Licensure
While telehealth platforms can help remove some of the burden of insurance credentialing, state licensure may be the bottleneck. In most cases, dietitians can only see clients who live in states where they hold an active license. Because each state sets its own renewal requirements, dietitians who want to practice in multiple states must often juggle multiple applications, initial and renewal fees, and possibly continuing education submissions, which can create significant administrative work. Licensure fees for dietitians in the U.S. vary widely by state, ranging anywhere from ~$20-$300 for initial applications and ~$20-$150 for annual or biennial renewals, with additional late or reinstatement charges depending on the state.
- Who manages it?
Typically, the responsibility for state licensure falls on the individual dietitian rather than the telehealth platform. Each state has its own application process, fees, and renewal requirements. Telehealth platforms may guide you or even reimburse costs, but they usually expect you to hold and maintain the licenses. - Why it matters:
More state licenses = more visibility on the telehealth platform = more potential clients = more income. A dietitian licensed in just one state will have a smaller pool of eligible clients compared to someone licensed in five or ten.
The takeaway: Telehealth platforms often take away some of the challenging parts of insurance credentialing, but your earning potential may be tied to how many state licenses you hold. Expanding your licensure footprint can increase the number of clients you’re matched with. Before joining, ask the telehealth platform more about how they support dietitians in this process!
Survey Review
Disclaimer:
The information in the section is based on survey responses collected from dietitians via Facebook groups and online communities. This is not our opinion and we did not ask each individual company to confirm the details.
We administered the survey, received the results, and asked ChatGPT to summarize the raw data under consistent headers for clarity. Responses reflect the lived experiences of dietitians who chose to participate.
Because of this, the information may not represent the full picture of working for these companies. Certain companies received more responses than others. Consequently, we are transparent about the number of responses per company so readers can understand the weight and context of the findings.
If your experience is different than what is summarized here and you would like to contribute to this post, please email hello@dietitiansuccesscenter.com.
Nourish
This section reflects data from a subset of responses (43 out of 115 total survey entries), gathered via Facebook groups and online communities. It may not fully represent all providers’ experiences, especially if certain companies received fewer responses. We’ve included raw response counts for transparency.
If your experience differs from what is summarized here and you would like to contribute, please email hello@dietitiansuccesscenter.com so we can add your input to the data presented.
Survey Responses Received
We received 43 survey responses from dietitians who currently (38) or previously (5) worked with Nourish.
Employment Status: Contractor or Employee
- Employee (W-2)
Compensation Details
- Majority said Paid / Client Session
- ~$50–78 per session (55 min) and most said that initials and follow-ups were paid the same rate, regardless of how long the session ended up lasting
- Higher hourly rate if it was a self-referral (someone you brought in or was recommended under your name)
- Not paid for any charting, pre-charting, reviewing cases, meetings, etc.
Onboarding Process/Length
- Majority said organized and supportive onboarding process
Typical Client Volume
- Client volumes varied widely, from 2-42 clients per week, with most people reporting that they felt their client load was “just right,” based on their desired client load
- Clients can be assigned to the practitioner or they can be self-referred from the practitioner
- Providers can choose their niche or specialty
Client No-Show/Cancellation Policies
- Client pays late cancellation fee & RD gets session rate. RD can choose to waive fee & forfeit pay
Additional Benefits
- Health insurance
- PTO (Paid Time Off)
- 401(k) match
- CEU/professional development allowance
- License fee reimbursement
- Majority of respondents mentioned that they were allowed to take clients outside of the company (for example, in their own Private Practice)
Pros and Critiques/Limitations
Pros:
- Reports of a supportive company culture for RDs
- Good technology/resources, reports of evolving in positive ways to streamline work for RDs
- Scheduling flexibility
- Consistent client referrals (note that some said this, while others said inconsistent; this may be impacted by niche, how many states the practitioner is licensed in, practitioners marketing skill, etc.)
- User-friendly charting, AI scribe
- “No micromanaging”
- Many recommend working there
Critiques/limitations:
- Some reports of inconsistent client flow and no guaranteed hours, reports of not always being paired with those in your specialty
- Frequent company changes due to evolution of company and shifting from weight-neutral to more weight-centric messaging
- Some reports of limited training/support, lack of transparency around performance metrics, complex licensing requirements across states
- All sessions set at 55 minutes – some found it difficult to fill the time slot or felt it led to more no-shows
- Minimal raises and concerns about rapid AI rollout
Would you recommend Nourish to a colleague?
- Yes: 35
- Maybe: 6
- No: 2
Foodsmart
Disclaimer: This section reflects data from a subset of responses (24 out of 115 total survey entries), gathered via Facebook groups and online communities. It may not fully represent all providers’ experiences, especially if certain companies received fewer responses. We’ve included raw response counts for transparency.
If your experience differs from what is summarized here and you would like to contribute, please email hello@dietitiansuccesscenter.com so we can add your input to the data presented.
Survey Responses Received
We received 24 survey responses from dietitians who currently or previously worked with Foodsmart. Among the respondents, 16 are currently working there, while 8 indicated they worked there in the past.
Employment Status: Contractor or Employee
- Contractor (1099): 18
- Employee (W-2): 6
- You have the choice to work as a full or part-time employee (includes benefits, paid a salary), or contractor (paid per billable unit)
Compensation Details
Reported pay structures varied:
- Salaried roles: ~$50,000-$80,000/year with potential quarterly bonuses (one report of ~$1250/quarter)
- For contractors, pay was typically structured per billable unit (e.g., $12 per 15 minute (billable unit), with $13 for a no-show or late cancellation; session rates ranged from $45-$54/hr
- Some contractors felt pay was inconsistent and difficult to predict depending on billing practices, no-shows, etc.
Onboarding Process/Length
Reported onboarding times varied:
- Some were credentialed and began seeing clients immediately and others reported a few weeks to a few months. Examples:
- “Onboarding took 25 hours and about 2 weeks. Paid $600 for onboarding.”
- “Onboarding was very lengthy… a few weeks to several months.”
- “1–2 months part-time onboarding.”
- “1 month, but that was on my timeline.”
- Others reported delays or confusion, particularly around role expectations (W-2 vs. 1099), so this would be an important component to clarify in the hiring process and when deciding if you want to be an employee or contractor
Typical Client Volume
- Client loads ranged from a few sessions per week to full-time caseloads (40 hours)
- Some respondents noted challenges achieving full hours consistently, depending on referrals and scheduling
Client No-Show/Cancellation Policies
- Contractors often reported $13 flat fee for a no-show/late cancellation (one per hour maximum)
- Employees described similar policies, but some noted dissatisfaction with pay for no-shows compared to session time
Additional Benefits
Reported benefits varied by status:
- Employees (W-2): Access to health insurance, PTO, and sometimes CEU/professional development funds
- Contractors (1099): Flexibility in scheduling but no health insurance, PTO, or license fee reimbursement
Pros and Critiques/Limitations
Pros:
- Flexible schedule
- Some employees reported strong benefits packages
- Good option for gaining clinical experience
- Some reports of good training and resources
- Diversity of clientele and supporting those who are food insecure
Critiques/limitations:
- For contractors: reports of pay variability and ‘confusing’ billing; no performance-based raises, making income unpredictable
- Unclear role expectations (W-2 vs. 1099); contractors report less support than employees; reports of poor technology/systems and unmet role/reimbursement promises
- Inconsistent communication/management, frequent policy changes, limited onboarding/training
- High no-show rates, poor client retention, and clients not always interested in dietitian services (linked to grocery incentives)
- Lack of inclusive resources and limited support for non-English-speaking clients
- No paid time for charting (especially lengthy for Medicaid)
Would you recommend Foodsmart to a colleague?
- Yes: 11
- Maybe: 7
- No: 6
Fay Nutrition
Disclaimer: This section reflects data from a subset of responses (17 out of 115 total survey entries), gathered via Facebook groups and online communities. It may not fully represent all providers’ experiences, especially if certain companies received fewer responses. We’ve included raw response counts for transparency.
If your experience differs from what is summarized here and you would like to contribute, please email hello@dietitiansuccesscenter.com so we can add your input to the data presented.
Survey Responses Received
We received 17 survey responses from dietitians who currently or previously worked with Fay Nutrition. Among the 17 respondents, 9 are currently working for Fay, while 8 indicated they worked there in the past.
Employment Status: Contractor or Employee
- Contractor (1099)
Compensation Details
- Reported rates varied widely depending on insurance, ranging from $0–$70 for an initial (sometimes unpaid to “boost” profiles), to $90–130 for initials, and $40–90 for follow-ups
- “Boosting your profile” refers to offering a low-cost or free initial session to gain visibility on the platform, often referred to as a “discovery call”
- Some noted that rates had decreased over time, with recent payouts closer to $50–60/session
- Pay is highly variable and tied to client’s insurance, with little transparency until after sessions are completed
Onboarding Process/Length
- Onboarding length ranged from less than a week to about two months
- Some reported quick credentialing (~1–4 weeks), while another noted misleading practices – e.g., billing under other RDs’ names during early onboarding
Typical Client Volume
- 10 respondents noted that their client volume was “just right” for their needs – ranging from 1 client per week to 35
- The majority of respondents noted that clients were “automatically assigned” by the company, but could also be brought in by the practitioner themselves
Client No-Show/Cancellation Policies
- Most respondents said RDs could choose to charge a late cancellation/no-show fee of around $60; the RD would then get paid that fee
- In practice, some did not get paid if they chose not to charge the fee
Additional Benefits
- Flexible schedule was the only consistently reported benefit
- One reported access to a CEU/professional development allowance
Pros and Critiques/Limitations
Pros:
- Flexibility in scheduling
- No need to market or handle billing
- Supplemental income stream
Critiques/limitations:
- Pay rate variability and lack of transparency
- Billing and ethical concerns (some reported false billing practices or misuse of RD information)
- Poor communication, reliance on automated/AI responses
- Decreased pay over time and sudden payout changes with affiliate programs
- Several reported feeling that Fay engaged in unethical or misleading practices, including public posting of the practitioners personal information
Would you recommend Fay to a colleague?
- No: 7
- Maybe: 6
- Yes: 4
Berry Street
Disclaimer: This section reflects data from a subset of responses (13 out of 115 total survey entries), gathered via Facebook groups and online communities. It may not fully represent all providers’ experiences, especially if certain companies received fewer responses. We’ve included raw response counts for transparency.
If your experience differs from what is summarized here and you would like to contribute, please email hello@dietitiansuccesscenter.com so we can add your input to the data presented.
Survey Responses Received
We received 13 survey responses from dietitians associated with Berry Street. Among the 13 respondents, 12 are currently working for Berry Street, while 1 indicated they worked there in the past.
Employment Status: Contractor or Employee
- Contractor (1099)
Compensation Details
- Consistently reported: $35 for initial visits and $70 for follow-ups when the client is sourced through Berry Street
- Self-sourced clients earned higher rates, often $75–$85 per session
- Several noted that initial rates had decreased over time (from ~$50 to $35)
- One respondent reported variations based on training: e.g., completing Berry Street’s self-sourcing course increased their rates
- Payment to the RD does not vary based on the client’s insurance plan
Onboarding Process/Length
- Reported onboarding times ranged from 1 week to 12 weeks
- Many described the process as self-paced and straightforward, requiring completion of orientation, NPI setup, and proof of malpractice insurance
- Most respondents saw their first client within 1–5 weeks after onboarding
Typical Client Volume
- Reported caseloads ranged widely, from 1–3 per week (if the practitioner desires part-time/side work) to 25–30 per week (if the practitioner is looking for a full-time client load)
- Several respondents noted using Berry Street as supplemental income alongside hospital, adjunct teaching, or other telehealth roles
- 11/13 respondents noted that their client volume was “just right” for their lifestyle and goals
Client No-Show/Cancellation policies
- Most reported a $100 no-show or late cancellation fee (charged to the client)
- RDs were usually still paid their normal session rate for the missed visit, though some noted flexibility to waive the fee
Additional Benefits
- Flexible schedule was the most consistently reported benefit
- Some reported CEU/professional development allowance
- Several also reported license fee reimbursement.
- No one reported health insurance, PTO, or retirement contributions
Pros and Critiques/Limitations
Pros:
- Flexible scheduling and ability to scale caseload
- Opportunity to see both Berry Street-sourced and self-sourced clients
- Helpful support team; quick response times
- Approachable leadership; collaborative community of dietitians
- AI-assisted charting features (some found this time-saving)
Critiques/limitations:
- Initial pay for assessments seen as low ($35)
- Pay only for client-facing time (admin time is unpaid)
- Frequent no-shows and cancellations reduce effective income
- Ongoing changes to EMR platform, with some finding it confusing
- Some concern that the $100 no-show fee feels excessive and can discourage clients from returning
Would you recommend Berry Street to a colleague?
- Yes: 9
- Maybe: 2
- No: 1
Dietitian Live
Disclaimer: This section reflects data from a subset of responses (6 out of 115 total survey entries), gathered via Facebook groups and online communities. It may not fully represent all providers’ experiences, especially if certain companies received fewer responses. We’ve included raw response counts for transparency.
If your experience differs from what is summarized here and you would like to contribute, please email hello@dietitiansuccesscenter.com so we can add your input to the data presented.
Survey Responses Received
We received 6 survey responses from dietitians who currently or previously worked with Dietitian Live. Among the respondents, 1 is currently working there, while 5 indicated they worked there in the past.
Employment Status: Contractor or Employee
- Employee (W-2)
Compensation Details
- 53-minute session & above: $45; 38–52 minutes: $30; 37 or fewer minutes: $20; admin time, meetings, and cancellations: $20/hr
- Pay does not vary based on the client’s insurance plan
Onboarding Process/Length
- Reported timelines ranged from right away to 2–3 weeks, and another respondent reported 2 months from interview to first client
- One report that onboarding length is likely due to time it takes to credential the provider
Typical Client Volume
- Caseloads ranged from 16–30 clients per week
- “Goal was 22/week; I saw about 20”
- “As a new RD, the expectation is to schedule at least 35 hours of clients each week and/or have 28 completed sessions per week. If the dietitian has a higher show rate, they may not need 35 clients to reach that 28 shows per week goal”
- None of the respondents reported that the client load felt “just right” for them, 3 indicated “Too Many” and 3 indicated “Too Few”
- Clients were automatically assigned by the company
- All respondents mentioned that they were not allowed to take clients outside of the company (for example, in their own Private Practice)
Client No-Show/Cancellation Policies
- Typically, dietitians received an hourly rate of $20 for a no-show/late cancellation; “If a client no shows or cancels late, dietitians are not paid for the session but can utilize that time for “admin” tasks and be paid the admin rate of $20 per hour”
- Reports that dietitians were supposed to call the client (up to 3x) and aim to reschedule them within the same week
Additional Benefits
- Health insurance – multiple respondents
- PTO (Paid Time Off) – multiple respondents
- 401(k) match – 2 respondents
- CEU/professional development allowance – 1 respondent
- License fee reimbursement
Pros and Critiques/Limitations
Pros:
- Company provides a laptop
- Sense of community/support between coworkers
- Experience working with a broad range of clients
- Remote work flexibility
- Some reports of skill development through counseling skills
Critiques/limitations:
- No-shows and late cancels are underpaid, making income less predictable
- Concerns with leadership/management: lack of transparency, micromanagement, CEO concerns, and overemphasis on metrics
- Additional responsibilities (e.g., social media) make it harder to focus on clinical growth
- Pressure to keep 90% of sessions at 53 minutes, which many find unrealistic
- High turnover of practitioners (60–70% reported) and report of not being able to “practice authentically” – note: no additional context was provided on this comment, but could allude to mismatch of nutrition philosophy between company and practitioner (if this is important to you, ensure you ask about it when interviewing)
- Little to no breaks between sessions, causing physical and mental strain; professional development reportedly focused more on “mindset” than clinical skills
Would you recommend Dietitian Live to a colleague?
- Yes: 0
- Maybe: 2
- No: 4
Vida Health
This section reflects data from a subset of responses (5 out of 115 total survey entries), gathered via Facebook groups and online communities. It may not fully represent all providers’ experiences, especially if certain companies received fewer responses. We’ve included raw response counts for transparency.
If your experience differs from what is summarized here and you would like to contribute, please email hello@dietitiansuccesscenter.com so we can add your input to the data presented.
Survey Responses Received
We received 5 survey responses from dietitians who currently or previously worked with Vida Health. Among the respondents, 1 is currently working there, while 4 indicated they worked there in the past.
Employment Status: Contractor or Employee
- Employee (W-2): 3
- Contractor (1099): 2
Compensation Details
Reported pay varied:
- $58,000/year as W-2 employee (with benefits and bonus opportunities at busy times)
- $30-40/hour as a contractor
- Session-based pay with lower rates for admin tasks (emails, charting, meetings)
- Pay does not vary based on the client’s insurance plan
Onboarding Process/Length
- Onboarding times ranged from 1 week to about 1 month
- Training reported to include mock sessions and structured modules
Typical Client Volume
- Reported caseloads varied widely:
- “20-30 (at one point they said 13/day was manageable)”
- “40-65”
- “I had my caseload set as high as 30, but was only seeing about 10”
- “15 (worked part-time)”
- Clients are automatically assigned to the practitioner; some report being able to choose a niche/specialty, while others said that you couldn’t choose – so this would be an area to clarify in an interview
- Full-time caseloads seemed to be subject to the practitioner – some reported that they were very heavy, while others said not enough; 2 reports that the client caseload was “just right,” 2 reports that it was “too few” and one report that it was “too many”
Client No-Show/Cancellation Policies
- No-shows and late cancels were paid at $20/hr or half of their hourly rate
Additional Benefits
- Health insurance (for W-2 employees), PTO (Paid Time Off), and 401k match, CEU/professional development allowances, license fee reimbursement (in some cases) for W-2 employees
- Contractors reported flexibility but no traditional benefits
- Allowed to take clients outside of this company in their own Private Practice
Pros and Critiques/Limitations
Pros:
- Flexibility in schedule
- Remote work
- Motivational interviewing training
- Benefits package (for employees) including CEUs and licensure reimbursement
Critiques/limitations:
- Technology/platform issues reported
- High no-show rates
- No benefits for part-time employees
- Focus on metrics over provider respect and client satisfaction
- Lack of clients, low/unclear pay rates, and inconsistent income
- Leadership/management concerns: poor communication, micromanaging, lack of transparency/support
Would you recommend Vida Health to a colleague?
- Yes: 1
- Maybe: 3
- No: 1
Nutrisense
This section reflects data from a subset of responses (1 out of 115 total survey entries), gathered via Facebook groups and online communities. It may not fully represent all providers’ experiences, especially if certain companies received fewer responses. We’ve included raw response counts for transparency.
If your experience differs from what is summarized here and you would like to contribute, please email hello@dietitiansuccesscenter.com so we can add your input to the data presented.
Survey Responses Received
We received 1 survey response from a dietitian who currently works with Nutrisense.
Employment Status: Contractor or Employee
- Contractor (1099)
Compensation Details
- $40/hour for 1 hr sessions, and $20 paid for 30 minute session
- Pay does not vary per client’s insurance company
Onboarding Process/Length
- Reported as two weeks long
Typical Client Volume
- Caseload reported an average of 10 clients per week at a minimum and the provider felt that this was “just right”
- The clients are assigned to the provider, but the provider can also choose a niche/specialty
Client No-Show/Cancellation Policies
- Reports being paid a portion of the typical hourly fee, but doesn’t state the exact amount
Additional Benefits
- Flexibility
Pros and Critiques/Limitations
Pros:
- “The technology (CGM)”
- Flexibility in work
Critiques/limitations:
- Pay perceived as low
- “Client satisfaction” cited as a challenge or limitation, no additional context reported
Would you recommend Nutrisense to a colleague?
- Yes: 0
- Maybe: 1
- No: 0
Omada Health
This section reflects data from a subset of responses (1 out of 115 total survey entries), gathered via Facebook groups and online communities. It may not fully represent all providers’ experiences, especially if certain companies received fewer responses. We’ve included raw response counts for transparency.
If your experience differs from what is summarized here and you would like to contribute, please email hello@dietitiansuccesscenter.com so we can add your input to the data presented.
Survey Responses Received
We received 1 survey response from a dietitian who previously worked with Omada Health.
Employment Status: Contractor or Employee
- Employee (W-2)
Compensation Details
- Reported pay: $50,000/year (salary)
Onboarding Process/Length
- ~4 weeks total: “2 weeks for onboarding + 2 weeks for start date”
Typical Client Volume
- Reported caseload: 300 clients per week. Note: Omada is messaging-based, rather than 1:1 virtual face-to-face visits
Client No-Show/Cancellation policies
- N/A
Additional Benefits
- Health insurance
- PTO (Paid Time Off)
- 401(k) or retirement contributions
- CEU/professional development allowance
- Flexible schedule
Pros and Critiques/Limitations
Pros:
- “Collaboration with fellow health experts”
Critiques/limitations:
- None reported
Would you recommend Omada to a colleague?
- Maybe: 1
- Yes: 0
- No: 0
Weight Watchers – Contracted through Medix
This section reflects data from a subset of responses (1 out of 115 total survey entries), gathered via Facebook groups and online communities. It may not fully represent all providers’ experiences, especially if certain companies received fewer responses. We’ve included raw response counts for transparency.
If your experience differs from what is summarized here and you would like to contribute, please email hello@dietitiansuccesscenter.com so we can add your input to the data presented.
Survey Responses Received
We received 1 survey response from a dietitian who currently works with Weight Watchers, contracted through Medix.
Employment Status: Contractor or Employee
- Contractor (1099)
Compensation Details
- $34/hour per 60 minutes worked (initials or follow-ups) + $34/hr for administrative tasks (usually paid 1-2 extra hours per week) or any required training;
- Overtime of $51 an hour for any hours over 15 worked
Onboarding Process/Length
- “3-4 weeks of training” before seeing clients
Typical Client Volume
- Caseload described as 12 clients per week and the respondent reported this felt like “too many” – as discussed above, perceptions of caseload volume depends on the goals of the practitioner
- Not allowed to see clients outside of the company in your own private practice
- The clients are assigned to the provider, but the provider can also choose a niche/specialty
Client No-Show/Cancellation Policies
- Providers are paid half of their hourly rate for no-shows or late cancels
Additional Benefits
- Flexibility of schedule was noted as the only benefit
Pros and Critiques/Limitations
Pros:
- Flexible schedule
- Opportunity to make more money with overtime pay
Critiques/limitations:
- Low hourly pay
- Lack of benefits
- No shows or last minute cancellations cited as a challenge
Would you recommend Weight Watchers – Contracted through Medix to a colleague?
- Yes: 1
- Maybe: 0
- No: 0
Culina Health
This section reflects data from a subset of responses (1 out of 115 total survey entries), gathered via Facebook groups and online communities. It may not fully represent all providers’ experiences, especially if certain companies received fewer responses. We’ve included raw response counts for transparency.
If your experience differs from what is summarized here and you would like to contribute, please email hello@dietitiansuccesscenter.com so we can add your input to the data presented.
Survey Responses Received
We received 1 survey response from a dietitian who previously worked with Culina Health.
Employment Status: Contractor or Employee
- Employee (W-2)
Compensation Details
- Reported hourly pay: $47.25/hr -“There is a tier higher than mine and one lower.”
- Pay was described as inconsistent and not always transparent upfront
- Not paid for charting/admin time
Onboarding Process/Length
- Onboarding process was described as about a week, with clients in the schedule the next week
- Some credentialing support offered, though details were limited in the single response
Typical Client Volume
- Average caseload was reported at 28-30 clients per week
- Not allowed to see clients outside of the company in your own private practice
- The clients are assigned to the provider, but the provider can also choose a niche/specialty
Client No-Show/Cancellation Policies
- Not reported
Additional benefits beyond pay
- Health insurance
- PTO (Paid Time Off)
- CEU/professional development allowance
- License fee reimbursement
- Wellness allowance
- Flexible schedule
Pros and Critiques/Limitations
Pros:
- Flexible work schedule
- Reports positive leadership, “The team hears us and cares. I’ve never felt this from a company or executive team before.”
Critiques/limitations:
- Inconsistent schedule, inconsistent pay
Would you recommend Culina Health to a colleague?
- Yes: 1
- Maybe: 0
- No: 0
ModifyHealth
This section reflects data from a subset of responses (1 out of 115 total survey entries), gathered via Facebook groups and online communities. It may not fully represent all providers’ experiences, especially if certain companies received fewer responses. We’ve included raw response counts for transparency.
If your experience differs from what is summarized here and you would like to contribute, please email hello@dietitiansuccesscenter.com so we can add your input to the data presented.
Survey Responses Received
We received 1 survey response from a dietitian who currently works with ModifyHealth.
Employment Status: Contractor or Employee
- Contractor (1099)
Compensation Details
- Reported pay per client/session: $48/hr – $10/15 min increment plus $8 admin
- Pay does not vary depending on the client’s insurance plan
- Allowed to take clients outside of the company (for example, in own private practice)
Onboarding Process/Length
- Onboarding took 3 months, from hiring date to first client, including credentialing and training
Typical Client Volume
- Caseload is 20 clients per week on average and feels “just right” for this respondent
- The clients are assigned to the provider, but the provider can also choose a niche/specialty
Client No-Show/Cancellation Policies
- Not reported for this company
Additional Benefits
- Flexibility and license fee reimbursement were noted benefits
Pros and Critiques/Limitations
Pros:
- Flexible schedule
Critiques/limitations:
- Low pay, challenging to try to make a full-time income with cancellations
- No retirement or health insurance benefits
Would you recommend ModifyHealth to a colleague?
- Yes: 1
- Maybe: 0
- No: 0
Telehealth Company Overview - Chart Comparison
Alternatives to Working with Large Telehealth Dietitian Companies
While companies like Fay, Nourish, Berry Street, Foodsmart, and more offer insurance access for clients, typically steady referrals, and tech tools, they’re not the only option. For some dietitians, building a career outside of these larger platforms is a better fit. Two common alternatives are starting your own private practice or joining a local group practice.
1. Starting Your Own Private Practice
Pros
- Full autonomy: You choose your niche, schedule, branding, and the types of clients you want to work with, insurance vs. self-pay, or a combination, etc.
- Unlimited earning potential: No cap on rates or caseload; you keep 100% of your revenue. Dietitians who opt for self-pay private practice often charge $150+/hour.
- Creative and counseling freedom: Ability to expand into programs, online courses, group coaching, or consulting and to not be bound to certain standards if you don’t agree with them.
- Skill-building: Gain experience in marketing, sales, operations, and business ownership.
- Flexibility: You decide whether you want a side hustle or a full-scale practice.
Considerations
- Financial risk: Up-front investment in EMR software, liability insurance, marketing, and admin tools.
- No built-in referrals: You’re responsible for finding and retaining clients.
- Learning curve: Billing, taxes, insurance (if you choose to accept it), and legal compliance are your responsibility, which can feel overwhelming to some.
- Loneliness: Private practice can feel isolating to some dietitians.
- Time trade-off: Administrative work can eat into client-facing hours and marketing time.
What to Keep in Mind / Ask Yourself Before Starting
- Do I want to accept insurance, private pay, or both? (This impacts paperwork and payment flow.)
- How many clients do I realistically need to see per week to meet my financial goals?
- Do I have a plan for marketing and client acquisition (social media, SEO, physician referrals, partnerships)?
- What systems will I use for charting, scheduling, payments, and HIPAA compliance?
- Do I have professional support (lawyer, accountant, mentor, community of peers)?
- What’s my tolerance for uncertainty in the first 6–12 months while my caseload builds?
2. Joining a Small Group Practice
Pros
- Shared infrastructure: Admin, billing, and scheduling are often handled for you.
- Team environment: Built-in referrals, mentorship, and collaboration with peers.
- Usually more predictable income: Often salary or hourly based.
- Work-life balance: Focus more on client care and less on admin.
- Professional credibility: Joining a known practice can boost your local reputation.
Considerations
- Less autonomy: The practice may control your caseload, fees, and scheduling.
- Lower pay per client: A cut of your billing goes to the practice.
- Limited growth: May cap your earnings and career trajectory.
- Geographic limits: May be tied to in-person or hybrid care.
What to Ask Before Joining a Group Practice
- Compensation structure: Is it salary, hourly, or a % of client billing? What’s the average take-home pay?
- Caseload expectations: How many clients per week is typical, and who controls scheduling?
- Referrals: Does the practice provide clients, or do I need to find my own?
- Autonomy: Can I choose my niche, or will I be assigned clients?
- Side practice policy: Am I allowed to see clients on my own outside the practice?
- Benefits: Are there health benefits, PTO, or professional development funds?
- Culture fit: What’s management’s style? Do I get to meet the team before committing? How often are meetings held and with whom?
- Contract details: Non-compete clauses, minimum time commitments, and termination policies.
Which Path Is Right for You?
Ultimately, choosing between a larger telehealth company, private practice, or a group practice depends on what you value most:
- If you want a ready-made system, a larger platform may be appealing.
- If you want more freedom, creativity, and higher earning potential, private practice might be a better fit.
- If you want community, support, and a more predictable income without the stress of business ownership, working for a small group practice could be the sweet spot.
Key Takeaways
Choosing where and how to practice as a dietitian is no longer a simple decision. What matters most is clarity about your own priorities. Do you value predictable income, or are you willing to trade some uncertainty for autonomy and higher earning potential? Do you want clients handed to you, or do you want to build something that’s fully your own? Do you thrive in a team environment, or do you prefer independence?
At the end of the day, the best choice is the one that aligns with your career goals, financial needs, and lifestyle. And remember: your decision doesn’t have to be permanent. Many dietitians move between these models throughout their careers- starting in one, experimenting with another, and often finding a hybrid approach that works best.
Our hope is that this guide helps you cut through the noise and see the bigger picture: you have options. And the more informed you are about the realities of each path, the more empowered you’ll be to build a career that feels sustainable, fulfilling, and aligned with the impact you want to make.
