How This Registered Dietitian Supports Intuitive Eating Differently

Discover how a registered dietitian takes a different approach to support intuitive eating with compassion, flexibility, and real-life connection.

Written by: Cristina Luibil, MS, RD, LDN

When you hear the term registered dietitian, you might think of food pyramids, calorie plans, or someone telling you what not to eat. But the truth is, especially here at Aterra Nutrition, that’s far from the full picture.

What is a registered dietitian?

A Registered Dietitian (RD), also known as a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN), is a nationally accredited expert in nutrition and food science. We're credentialed by the Commission on Dietetic Registration and trained to provide personalized, science-backed guidance to protect public health, enhance well-being, and support sustainable wellness. But what makes working with this registered dietitian different? I’m glad you asked.

What it takes to become an RD

The path isn’t exactly easy, but it’s worth it. I completed:

• An accredited bachelor’s degree

• A master’s degree in nutrition

• Over 1,200 hours of supervised practice through a dietetic internship

• A national credentialing exam

• Ongoing continuing education to stay current with best practices

  
  

I’m also licensed in Maryland and West Virginia. If you're outside those states and want to work together, let’s talk. I’d love to see what’s possible.

My approach

Beyond credentials, what sets me apart is my dedication to intuitive eating and a deeply compassionate approach to your nutrition journey.

As a Certified Intuitive Eating Counselor, I don’t hand you a one-size-fits-all meal plan. Instead, we build an empowering relationship rooted in trust, curiosity, and body respect. Whether you’re working through disordered eating patterns or simply want to stop feeling stressed every time you open the pantry, I’m here to offer a different kind of support, one that centers your lived experience, not diet culture’s rules.

In our sessions, we’ll explore what’s working, what’s not, and how to shift your approach with kindness. You’ll get tailored, realistic goals, no shame, no extremes, just doable steps forward. And yes, we’ll chat about food joy, favorite meals, and the art of sustainable habits.

Why this work matters to me

I’ve been on the other side, pushing my body to its limits in pursuit of an ideal I thought would bring happiness. I know how it feels to be praised for looking “thin,” and how empty that praise becomes when your body changes, as bodies naturally do. That’s why I’m so passionate about this work.

Helping you rediscover joy in eating, movement, and simply being in your body is the heartbeat of what I do. I want to be your registered dietitian and your support system, not the kind that hands you a plan and walks away, but one who meets you in the mess, honors your story, and guides you through intuitive eating with a different level of compassion and care.

Nutrition is science, yes, but it’s also deeply personal. I bring you both: evidence-based tools through a Health at Every Size® lens, and a space where you can exhale and feel seen. Ready to explore how intuitive eating could change the way you nourish and care for yourself? I’m here when you’re ready.

Want to learn how to eat your favorite foods without guilt or stress?!

Check out our FREE guide.

CLICK HERE

Disclaimer: While I am a registered dietitian, the information shared in this blog is for general educational and informational purposes only and may not be tailored to your specific health needs. This content is not intended to replace personalized medical advice, nutrition counseling, or medical nutrition therapy. Any recipes or suggestions provided are meant to inspire and should be used at your discretion. Always consult with your own registered dietitian, physician, or healthcare provider before making changes to your nutrition, lifestyle, or treatment plan. If you choose, Aterra Nutrition would be happy to help you in your own, individual nutrition and intuitive eating journey.