What is a Registered Dietitian?
The Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) credential is a legally protected title that can be used only by practitioners who are authorized by the Commission on Dietetic Registration from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
Is there a difference between a Registered Dietitian and a Nutritionist?
Yes, there is a difference between the two. While some RDs may call themselves “nutritionists,” please be aware that not all nutritionists are Registered Dietitians. The definition and requirements for the term “nutritionist” vary. Some states, such as Pennsylvania, have licensure laws that define the range of practice for someone using the designation “nutritionist.“ In other states, however, virtually anyone can call him or herself a “nutritionist,” regardless of education or training.
What are the qualifications of a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist?

A Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) is a food and nutrition expert who has met academic and professional requirements including:

  • Earned at minimum a four-year degree with course work approved by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND). Coursework typically includes food and nutrition sciences, foodservice systems management, business, economics, computer science, sociology, biochemistry, physiology, microbiology, and chemistry.
  • Completed 1,000+hrs of an accredited, supervised practice program at a health-care facility, community agency and foodservice corporation.
  • Passed a national examination administered by the Commission on Dietetic Registration.
  • Completes continuing professional educational requirements to maintain registration.
What should I expect during the initial visit?
During your first consultation with Helen you can expect to take a complete medical and social history, explore goals, previous diets and their outcomes, your relationship with food and family history. Helen will help develop strategies to accomplish your goals and coach you along the way.
Is it okay to snack?
Snacking can help or hurt a healthful diet. The difference depends on what you choose and how much you eat. Whether you like to munch, nibble, or simply quench the mid-afternoon “hungries,” you can make snacking work for you. It just takes a little planning.
Does insurance cover Professional Nutrition Consultations?
ProNutrition accepts Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield/PPO Blue and UPMC Health Plans. They may or may not offer coverage for Medical Nutrition Therapy. Carefully investigate the type of coverage you have. Payment and applicable insurance reimbursements are the responsibilities of the client. Payment is expected at the time of your appointment. Checks should be made payable to Professional Nutrition Consulting, LLC. Credit cards are also accepted.

You will be provided with a receipt that you may submit to your insurance company for potential reimbursement. Individual appointments are scheduled for a specific time. A $25 cancellation fee will be billed to the individual for the missed appointment unless the RD is notified of cancellation at least 24 hours in advance.

How do I book an appointment?
Click on the Book An Appointment tab at the top of the page.
Can I use your services if I live out of state?
Yes, Personal Nutrition Coaching can take place in person or over the phone. Helen is also available for consultations via email, FaceTime and Skype.
Can I schedule an appointment for my child?
Yes, children under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. Consultations take place at Helen’s office.
What is the difference between Fat Free, Reduced Fat and Lite?
  • Low fat means 3 grams of fat or less per serving (or per 100 grams of food)
  • Reduced fat means the food product contains 50% (or less) of the fat found in the regular version
  • Less fat means 25% or less fat than the comparison food
  • Fat free means the product has less than 0.5 grams of fat per serving, with no added fat or oil
  • Light (fat) means 50% or less of the fat than in the regular version
  • Light (calories) means 1/3 fewer calories than the regular version

See what people are saying

As someone who has never been extremely fit or healthy, it took a couple of health diagnoses for me to decide to change my unhealthy habits. My weight had crept up over time and I was technically considered obese. I decided it was finally time to prioritize my health.

With Helen’s nutrition instruction and accountability, I have achieved a 30lb weight loss in less than 3 months. Helen’s guidance has helped me to make sustainable healthy lifestyle changes. Helen has shown me that eating healthily is doable. It’s not a fad or an overcomplicated puzzle. I can do this.

Because of Helen’s guidance, I am seeing big changes. My hard work is paying off. I highly recommend Helen Agresti to anyone ready to prioritize their health!


Karen E 34

I HIGHLY recommend Helen Agresti. Within the past month, she’s helped me lose 11 lbs. without having to resort to any fad diet. I’ve been going back and forth with keto for years… I can eat bread now. I’ve had no cravings at all because I’m eating a balanced diet. She’s taught me how to read labels and cut chemicals out of my food. I could go on and on, but I feel so much better and healthier. The money I saved on groceries alone over the past month has already paid for the initial consult. I cannot recommend her enough.


Heather F, 44

Helen has completely changed the way I look at nutrition and a healthy lifestyle. She has taught me the balance of giving my body what it needs, while also enjoying life at the same time. Helen helped me find a workout routine that works best for me and was sustainable. I am forever grateful for her support and motivation to get me on the right track to feeling my absolute best!


Lauren S, 24

I am so grateful to find Helen. She has help me understand nutrition and how to fuel my body so I don’t  feel deprived. She has helped me to understand my portions of food, and given me guidance to understand the value in good wholesome foods. I am down 25 pounds and feeling great! I am so happy to be headed in the right direction.


Michelle M, 60

I am so happy I decided to change my life and schedule an appointment with Helen. She has truly helped change my whole mindset. She’s taught me to stick to better sleep, and an eating schedule to get my metabolism running. With just a few tweaks to my schedule and enjoying eating my food instead of skipping meals, I’ve boosted my metabolism and lost 19lbs in 1 month!  I’m so grateful to Helen and excited I finally found a lifestyle change that will last forever.


Victoria S, 25

As soon as I met Helen I knew I made a life-changing choice.  I have been struggling with losing a few pounds and trying to figure out what to eat for optimal health benefits.  From my first visit,  I knew I was on my way to a healthier me.  Helen has educated me in several areas.  Most importantly, learning how to fuel my body nutritiously.  She also introduced me to an exercise program that fits my fitness level.


Jill M, 56

I recently began using Helen’s app that helps with meal planning. Helen created a nutrition prescription for me and the app gives menu options for breakfast, snacks, lunch and dinner. These are healthy choices that are easy and delicious. If there is something on the menu I do not find appealing, I am able to swap out the meal for other options. This app makes it easy to try new and different combinations of energizing food.

Helen has helped bring exciting variety to my meals. I am so grateful to have the expertise of Helen guiding me to a healthier lifestyle.


Jill M 56

When it comes to meal planning, the app has been a game-changer! I can plan simple meals and snacks, and even swap out foods if I wish. By tracking my food choices, water intake, and exercise on a daily log within the app, I can hold myself accountable for the goals I have set for myself. The grocery list feature allows me to add any ingredients I need right into my Instacart app with a click and my meals are planned and shopped for!! So convenient.

I have been pleasantly surprised with the app and Helen’s input when it comes to making weeknights a little less hectic, and a little healthier!


AC, 47

Change Your Life Today

Professional Nutrition Consulting provides professional advice by educating clients on their individual nutritional needs. We believe fueling our body with the proper variety and portion of foods at consistent times of the day will lead to a healthier life.