INITIAL CONSULTATION
An initial consult can be expected to last up to 60 minutes. This consultation is an opportunity for the dietitian to get to know you and to gather background information. Information about your medical history, lifestyle habits, dietary pattern, food loves and hates and current health and wellbeing goals. The dietitian also needs to discuss and understand the presence of problem areas and 'triggers' for food intake such as emotional eating, bloating after eating, so that these issues can be worked on in future consultations and incorporated into the diet plan.
Basic body measurements and weight (if required) may be taken during the consultation so that a baseline is set from which to make goals and to see future results .
Working together, a dietary plan is developed combining practical and achievable strategies that are personalised to your specific needs. By the end of your first visit, the dietitian will provide you with either a tailored meal plan or personalised eating guidelines – depending on the your preference.
Double appointments can also be arranged where you and your partner can attend together and receive individually tailored advice to address both your health needs.
REVIEW CONSULTATION
Managing the way you eat usually involves ongoing care and attention. A review appointment may be scheduled according to your needs. Some clients find that they are able to get all the information and help they need in their initial appointment, but most will benefit from ongoing appointments.
Review consultations generally last 30 minutes. They are usually scheduled between 1 and 4 weeks apart — the frequency will be discussed in your initial consultation and decided on by both you and the dietitian. The number of review appointments will be determined by your personal needs, and any extra motivation or information you might need.
Making changes to the way you eat can seem overwhelming. Review sessions help you monitor your progress, continue to motivate and provide you with extra information to help you successfully achieve your goals. Research shows that regular sessions with a qualified dietitian help people really achieve their goals, compared with trying to do it alone.
