Why Work with Melissa - Supporting Your Unique Needs
In a community like Elliot Lake, where many residents are retirees or living with chronic conditions, access to specialized, supportive nutrition services can be hard to come by. That’s why I offer virtual dietitian support designed specifically for people in rural and northern communities.
My approach is rooted in a non-diet, weight-inclusive philosophy and guided by Health at Every Size® (HAES®). I work with you to understand your goals, your preferences, and your real-life challenges. Whether it’s managing blood pressure, improving digestion, or building a healthier relationship with food, I provide compassionate care that meets you where you are—right at home in Elliot Lake.
Services Offered in
Elliot Lake
Diabetes & Prediabetes Management
Practical, personalized strategies to steady blood sugar, tailored to shift schedules and mining‑camp meal patterns.
Emotional Eating Support
Tools to identify stress‑eating triggers, implement mindful eating, and foster a balanced relationship with food.
Digestive Health
Specialized help for IBS, IBD, Diverticular Disease, Gallbladder Issues, Pancreatitis, and other GI concerns common in remote settings.
Heart Health Nutrition
Real‑world guidance to lower cholesterol and blood pressure—designed for life in a mining region with limited local resources.
Pediatric Nutrition
Support for introducing solids, managing allergies, and encouraging adventurous, balanced eating in kids.
Weight- Inclusive Support
A non‑restrictive, client‑centered approach that fits your schedule and honors your body’s signals for long‑term success.
Meal Planning and Healthy Eating
Flexible meal plans for shift workers, families, and community events—making nutritious eating easy, even on rotating hours.
Fertility and Prenatal Support
Compassionate, evidence-based nutrition support to help Elliot Lake residents feel nourished, confident, and prepared—before and during pregnancy.
For more details on each service, visit our services page.
Melissa’s Approach
In a community like Elliot Lake, where many residents are retirees or living with chronic conditions, access to specialized, supportive nutrition services can be hard to come by. That’s why I offer virtual dietitian support designed specifically for people in rural and northern communities.
My approach is rooted in a non-diet, weight-inclusive philosophy and guided by Health at Every Size® (HAES®). I work with you to understand your goals, your preferences, and your real-life challenges. Whether it’s managing blood pressure, improving digestion, or building a healthier relationship with food, I provide compassionate care that meets you where you are—right at home in Elliot Lake.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How do I get started?It’s easy! Just book a free 15-minute discovery call here to discuss your needs and how we can work together.
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Is this covered by insurance in Ontario?Many extended health plans in Ontario cover services by registered dietitians. I recommend checking with your provider. For further information please visit our Insurance Information Page.
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Are all sessions virtual?Yes! We offer both video and phone appointments, so you can get expert care no matter where you are. For details on our hours of operation, click here.
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What conditions do you treat?From diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol and PCOS to IBS/IBD, NAFLD, kidney disease and more, see our full list above.
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How quickly will I see results?Many clients notice improvements (energy, digestion, mood) within 2–4 weeks; lab‑value changes often follow in 3–6 months, depending on the condition.
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Is this covered by insurance?Most extended health plans in Ontario include Registered Dietitian services. Visit our Insurance Information Page for details on billing and reimbursement.
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Is this covered by insurance?Many plans do reimburse for dietitian services. Coverage varies by provider and policy, head over to our Insurance Information Page for tips on how to submit claims and check your benefits.
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How many sessions will I need?Everyone’s needs are different, so the right package depends on your goals. You can check out the options on the Services page, and if you’re not sure what’s best, no worries! Just book a free discovery call here, and we’ll chat about what you’re looking for and find the best fit together.
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Do I need a referral from a doctor?In many cases, you do not need a doctor’s referral to see a dietitian. However, some insurance plans may require a referral for coverage, so it’s always a good idea to check your specific plan details.
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How much will I be reimbursed?The reimbursement amount depends on your insurance plan. Coverage can vary, so it’s important to verify the details with your provider. Many plans cover a portion of the cost, with limits on how many sessions they’ll cover per year.
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Do you offer direct billing?While I do not currently offer direct billing, I’m happy to provide a detailed receipt that you can submit to your insurance provider for reimbursement.
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Can I claim dietitian services for my children?Yes, many insurance plans cover pediatric dietitian services. Coverage specifics may vary, so be sure to check with your provider about services for children or family members.
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What if I don’t have insurance?If you don’t have insurance coverage for dietitian services, don’t worry! I offer affordable rates for all my clients and will work with you to ensure you get the support you need. Plus, dietitian services are tax-deductible as medical expenses, so you can claim them on your income tax return to help reduce your overall costs.
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How do I know if my insurance plan covers dietitian services?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.
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Do you offer virtual consultations?Yes, I offer virtual consultations for clients who prefer remote sessions. These virtual appointments provide convenient access to expert nutrition guidance from the comfort of your own space.
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What services do you offer?I provide a range of nutrition counselling services for various health concerns and conditions including: - Healthy Eating - Chronic Disease Management (Prediabetes, Type II Diabetes, Cholesterol, Hypertension, Kidney Disease, Heart Disease, Liver Disease, COPD, Osteoporosis) - Weight Inclusive Support - Meal Planning - Prenatal and Postnatal Nutrition - Fertility Support - Digestive Health (IBS, IBD, Dysphagia, Diverticular Disease, Ostomies, Pancreatitis, Gastroparesis, Gallbladder Disease) - Emotional Eating & Craving Management - Pediatric Nutrition (Picky Eating, Starting Solid Foods) - Food Allergies and Intolerances
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What is the difference between a registered dietician and a nutritionist?The main difference between a registered dietician and a nutritionist lies in their qualifications and scope of practice. Registered dieticians are regulated health professionals with specific education and training, while nutritionists may have varying levels of education and certification. Registered Dieticians can provide medical nutrition therapy and work in clinical settings, whereas nutritionists often focus on general wellness and may not have the same level of expertise in medical nutrition.
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How can I book your services?To schedule an appointment, please visit my website and click on "Book Now." If you have any questions about my services, feel free to book a Free 15-minute Consultation or contact me through the Contact Page. You can also reach me directly via email at info@melissafortier-rd.com.
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Are your services covered under benefits?Yes, most insurance companies cover registered dietician services. Contact your insurance provider to inquire about coverage for registered dietician services. I will provide you with a receipt to submit following your session. Registered Dietician services are tax deductible under medical expenses if you don't have insurance.
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Do you offer in-person consultations?I currently offer nutrition counselling services only by phone or virtually. For more information on consultation options, please contact me through my Contact Page or email me at info@melissafortier-rd.com.
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What are your business hours?I accept appointments by appointment only, available weekday evenings. Please visit my website and click "Book Now" to schedule a consultation.
