Question 1

Why work with a dietitian?

Accepted Answer

A registered dietitian (RD) provides personalized, evidence-based nutrition support to help you improve your health, feel better, and reach your goals—without restrictive diets.
1. Improved health outcomes: Working with an RD can help lower blood pressure, cholesterol, and A1C, manage digestive issues, and support conditions like PCOS, NAFLD, and kidney disease.
2. Personalized support: Unlike generic online advice, dietitians tailor recommendations to your needs, lifestyle, and goals.
3. Trusted, regulated care: In Ontario, only registered dietitians are licensed and accountable to a professional college.
Learn more at unlockfood.ca

Question 2

What’s the difference between a dietitian and a nutritionist in Canada?

Accepted Answer

The key difference lies in regulation, training, and scope of practice. Registered Dietitians (RDs) are regulated health professionals. They complete accredited university programs, practical training, and must be registered with a provincial regulatory body—such as the College of Dietitians of Ontario. RDs are qualified to provide medical nutrition therapy, including support for chronic conditions, and often work in clinical, community, and private practice settings. Nutritionists may not be regulated, depending on the province, and their education and credentials can vary widely. While some may offer valuable general nutrition advice, they are not typically trained or authorized to provide care for complex medical conditions. 
Learn more about registered dietitians.

Question 3

What types of conditions do you support?

Accepted Answer

I offer evidence-based, weight-inclusive counselling for a variety of conditions, including diabetes, hypertension, IBS, IBD, NAFLD, kidney disease, PCOS, and more. I follow clinical guidelines from sources like Diabetes Canada. Visit my Services page for the full list.

Question 4

What are your hours and how do I book?

Accepted Answer

I accept consultations by appointment only, available weekday evenings. For details on our hours of operation, click here. Please visit my website and click "Book Now" to schedule a consultation.

Question 5

How can I prepare for my appointment?

Accepted Answer

Preparing for the Appointment
Complete and submit any required forms ahead of time.
Ensure your device is charged or plugged in.
Be available 15 minutes before and after your appointment.
Choose a quiet, private, and well-lit space.
If someone else will be joining, make sure they’re available at the scheduled time.
For virtual appointments: Ensure a stable internet connection. If using a phone or tablet, download the Practice Better App (not required for computer users).

What to Bring to the Appointment
Health insurance card. If it doesn’t include a photo, bring a supporting photo ID.
Eyeglasses or hearing aids, if needed.
Your relevant health history, including:
Current health conditions or illnesses
Medications and supplements
Food allergies
Family medical history
Recorded health data (e.g., weight, height, blood sugars, blood pressure)
Pen and paper or another method for taking notes.

Question 6

What can I expect during my first dietitian appointment?

Accepted Answer

In your first appointment with me (a Registered Dietitian in Ontario), we’ll review:
Your health history, current medications, and supplements
Recent lab work or medical concerns (if applicable)
Your eating habits, lifestyle, and preferences
Any questions, challenges, or goals you have
This helps create a customized nutrition plan that fits your goals.

Question 7

Do you offer in-person consultations?

Accepted Answer

I currently offer nutrition counseling services by phone or virtually only. For more information on consultation options, feel free to contact me. If you're specifically looking for in-person support, you can explore other regulated dietitians in your area using Find a Dietitian, HealthProfs, Half Your Plate and Lumino Health.

Question 8

Is my information secure?

Accepted Answer

Yes — protecting your privacy is a top priority. I use Practice Better, a secure, encrypted platform that’s fully compliant with Canadian privacy laws, including PHIPA and PIPEDA. Your personal health information is stored safely and only accessed through secure login. I follow all professional and legal standards to ensure your information is kept confidential. 
You can read more in my Privacy Policy.

Question 9

What is PHIPA and how is my health information protected?

Accepted Answer

PHIPA is Ontario’s privacy law for health information. It ensures strict confidentiality and protection of your personal health data. As a Registered Dietitian in Ontario, I’m required to follow PHIPA to ensure your information remains private and secure. Learn more about PHIPA.

Question 10

What to expect for my virtual sessions?

Accepted Answer

All virtual sessions are held through a secure, private video platform built into Practice Better,  a secure and fully compliant platform (HIPAA, PIPEDA, PHIPA) built for Canadian health professionals. After booking, you'll receive a link to join your session—no downloads required. You can use your phone, tablet, or computer. If using a phone or tablet, download the Practice Better App.  Log in 5–10 minutes early. You may be placed in a waiting room until I join. If there’s background noise, please mute your microphone when not speaking to improve audio quality.

Question 11

Can I book a dietitian appointment without a referral in Ontario?

Accepted Answer

Yes—you can self-refer to work with a Registered Dietitian in Ontario. Some insurance plans may require a doctor’s referral for reimbursement, so check your coverage.

Question 12

What to expect for my phone session?

Accepted Answer

Be ready to answer a call, which may appear as "unknown" or "blocked."

Question 13

What personal information do you collect?

Accepted Answer

I only collect the personal information needed to provide safe, effective, and ethical nutrition services. This may include:
Your name, email address, phone number, and mailing address
Health history, lifestyle habits, and nutrition concerns (when voluntarily shared)
Appointment details, forms, or messages submitted through Practice Better
Payment information (securely processed via Practice Better Payments, powered by Stripe)
Website interactions (e.g., IP address, browser type, or cookie preferences)
Any health-related information you share is treated with strict confidentiality and stored securely using PHIPA- and PIPEDA-compliant systems. I never sell your information or use it for marketing without your consent.

Question 14

Who can see my information?

Accepted Answer

Only Melissa Fortier, RD has access to your file, unless you give written permission to share it with another health care provider. Your information may also be shared if required by law (e.g., risk of serious harm or audit).

Question 15

How do you use email and messages?

Accepted Answer

I use secure Practice Better messaging for all clinical communication (e.g., care plans or personal health info).
I may use regular email only for administrative tasks like appointment reminders or receipts—with your consent.
Email newsletters or resources are optional and require separate opt-in consent.

Question 16

How do I get started?

Accepted Answer

Book a free virtual Discovery Call to discuss your health goals and how I can support you—whether you're in Greater Sudbury or anywhere else in Ontario.

Question 17

Can I book a virtual consultation with a dietitian in Greater Sudbury?

Accepted Answer

I offer secure virtual nutrition consultations across Ontario—including Sudbury, North Bay, and Kirkland Lake. Sessions are held via Practice Better, a PHIPA- and PIPEDA-compliant platform—no downloads needed. Choose video or phone appointments based on your comfort and internet access. Book a virtual consultation here or visit my Services page for more info.

Question 18

Do you offer dietitian services in Kirkland Lake or outside of Sudbury?

Accepted Answer

Yes! All sessions are virtual or by phone, allowing me to support clients across Northern Ontario—from Timmins and Sault Ste. Marie to Kirkland Lake, North Bay, and beyond. This lets you get expert care without travel. Visit my Services page to learn more.

Question 19

What if I’m looking for a different type of dietitian or someone local?

Accepted Answer

Finding the right fit matters. If you're looking for a dietitian with a different specialty, language, or someone offering in-person appointments in your area, these directories can help:
College of Dietitians of Ontario—Find a Dietitian
Dietitians of Canada—Find a Dietitian Tool
HealthProfs.com—Find a Health Professional 
Use filters such as location, specialty, or language to find the best fit.

Question 20

How soon will I see results?

Accepted Answer

With your Ontario-based Registered Dietitian, many clients begin to notice positive changes—like improved energy, digestion, or mood—within 2 to 4 weeks of implementing their personalized plan. Measurable changes in lab values or chronic conditions often take longer, typically 3 to 6 months, depending on your health goals and consistency.

Question 21

Are all sessions virtual?

Accepted Answer

Yes! All sessions are virtual or by phone, allowing me to support clients across Northern Ontario—from Timmins and Manitoulin Island to West Nipissing and Temiskaming Shores and beyond. This lets you get expert care without travel. Visit my Services page to learn more.

Question 22

What is the process for booking a consultation?

Accepted Answer

Booking is simple: click Book Now, pick a time, and provide your details. You'll receive a link to your personalized Practice Better client portal, where you can complete intake forms, view appointments, and message me.

Question 23

Are dietitian services covered by extended health insurance in Ontario?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Many extended health benefits plans in Ontario cover services provided by Registered Dietitians. Coverage can vary based on your plan, so it’s a good idea to check with your provider directly. Visit my Insurance page for further information. In some cases, these services may also qualify as a medical expense on your tax return. For detailed information, visit CRA: Eligible Medical Expenses

Question 24

How much does it cost to see a Registered Dietitian in Ontario?

Accepted Answer

Pricing varies based on the chosen package. Visit my Pricing and Insurance page for full details.
Many Ontario benefit plans cover dietitian sessions. Insurance reimbursement varies—check with your provider.

Question 25

How many sessions will I need?

Accepted Answer

Everyone’s needs are different, so the right package depends on your goals and concerns. Browse options on my Services page or book a free Discovery Call to tailor a plan to your needs.

Question 26

Are Registered Dietitian services covered by insurance?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Most extended health benefit plans in Ontario cover nutrition counselling with a Registered Dietitian. Coverage levels vary, so check your plan. I provide receipts for reimbursement, and services may qualify as a medical expense on your Canada tax return—see the CRA’s Eligible Medical Expenses page. Learn more on our Insurance page.

Question 27

What payment methods do you accept?

Accepted Answer

I accept all major credit cards — including Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, Diners Club, JCB, and China UnionPay — as well as Apple Pay and Google Pay. For packages, payment is collected securely at the time of booking. You’ll receive an immediate payment receipt for your records; however, this receipt is not valid for insurance claims. Official insurance receipts are issued after each session is completed within your package.

Question 28

Do you offer direct billing?

Accepted Answer

I don’t offer direct billing currently, but you will receive itemized receipts for easy reimbursement with your extended health plan. Visit my Insurance page for more info.

Question 29

Do you offer individual sessions or only packages?

Accepted Answer

I currently offer nutrition care through packages only. Packages are designed to provide more support, follow-up, and accountability over time, which is key to making lasting changes. Each package includes an initial nutrition consultation and a set number of nutrition follow-up sessions, spaced out based on your needs.

Question 30

How do I know if my insurance plan covers dietitian services?

Accepted Answer

To confirm coverage, check your benefits booklet or contact your insurance provider directly. Some plans cover dietitian services as part of extended health benefits, while others may have specific conditions or limits.

Question 31

How much will I be reimbursed?

Accepted Answer

Insurance plans and coverage for dietitian services vary widely. Coverage is subject to the terms and conditions of your individual insurance policy. I recommend contacting your insurance provider directly to understand your benefits before booking.

Question 32

Can dietitian services be claimed for my child?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Many Ontario benefit plans also cover pediatric dietitian services. Policies differ, so confirm your coverage. Pediatric counselling can support picky eaters, growth, and food allergies.

Question 33

What if I don't have insurance?

Accepted Answer

No problem! I offer competitive rates and flexible packages for clients paying out of pocket. If cost is a concern, a sliding scale option may be available to help make services more accessible.
Keep in mind that dietitian services may qualify as a medical expense on your Canadian income tax return. Please consult your tax advisor for more information and learn more by visiting the CRA website

Question 34

I'm a health care provider—How can I refer a patient to your practice?

Accepted Answer

You can refer a patient by completing my Nutrition Counselling Referral Form and faxing it to my confidential fax line at 705-419-2940. Patients are also welcome to self-refer—they can mention your name or clinic on the intake form so I know who sent them.

Question 35

How do you protect client privacy?

Accepted Answer

I use Practice Better, a secure, PHIPA- and PIPEDA-compliant platform designed specifically for regulated health professionals. All personal health information (PHI) is stored on encrypted servers, with access restricted to authorized users via secure login. Documentation, communication, and data sharing are conducted in accordance with Ontario privacy legislation and the standards set by the College of Dietitians of Ontario.
 👉 For more details, please refer to my Privacy Policy.

Question 36

Do you offer services in both English and French?

Accepted Answer

Yes, I offer bilingual nutrition counselling in both English and French.

Question 37

As a referring healthcare provider, will I receive follow-up or progress updates?

Accepted Answer

Yes. With the client's consent, I’m happy to provide updates to referring providers as appropriate. Please indicate on the referral form if you would like to receive follow-up communication.

Question 38

I'm a health care provider—Do I need to provide a referral for my patient to see you?

Accepted Answer

No, referrals are not required. Patients can self-refer by booking a free discovery call. However, referrals from healthcare providers are always welcome and appreciated.

Question 39

Are your services covered by OHIP?

Accepted Answer

No, unfortunately my services are not covered by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). However, many extended health benefit plans and health insurance plans do include coverage for registered dietitian services. Also, dietitian services are tax deductible, visit CRA-Eligible Medical Expenses for more information.

Frequently Asked Questions