Frequently Asked Questions
“Finding the right answers begins with the right questions.” Frank Sonnenberg
General Questions
What is integrative nutrition counseling?
Integrative nutrition counseling is a customized approach to nutrition and lifestyle that aims to promote optimal health and overall well-being for each individual. It focuses on the root cause and takes into account the whole person to help prevent and combat chronic and metabolic illnesses.
How do I get started?
Start with a free 15-minute discovery call to talk through your goals, coverage options, and next steps. Be sure to check out the FAQs first to learn more about what to expect. If everything aligns, we'll move forward with scheduling your initial consultation.
Can I meet with you in person for my sessions?
At this time all sessions are conducted virtually using a HIPAA-secure telehealth platform that provides a convenient and safe way to connect, so you can feel comfortable and confident during our sessions.
What ages do you work with?
Anyone 18 and over is invited to work with me.
What are your credentials?
I hold a Master of Science in Clinical Nutrition and am a board-certified Nutrition Specialist® (CNS®), licensed dietitian nutritionist (LDN), certified health and wellness coach, with specialized training in nutritional genomics from the American Nutrition Association (ANA).
What is a Certified Nutrition Specialist®?
The Certified Nutrition Specialist® credential (CNS®) is the most advanced certification for personalized nutrition practitioners. Certified Nutrition Specialists practice science-based personalized nutrition therapy to power people to health. This credential requires a Master of Science degree in nutrition, completion of 1,000 hours of supervised practice experience, and passing a rigorous board examination to demonstrate their education, experience, and training. They are also required to re-certify every 5 years by completing at least 75 hours of continuing education.
Sessions & Packages
What is a Discovery Session?
During this free 15-minute session, we’ll talk about your current health concerns and wellness goals, and explore how nutrition counseling may support you. It’s also a great time to ask questions about my process, available packages, or what working together looks like. We’ll review your insurance coverage and discuss payment options so you know exactly what to expect. Most importantly, this call helps us both ensure it's the right fit to support your success.
What is an Initial Consultation?
This session is an in-depth assessment of your nutritional health. During our initial consultation, you will have my undivided attention as you share your unique health history, concerns, and personal goals. This will include a comprehensive nutritional assessment of your food preferences, intolerances or allergies, daily food intake, personal diet history, and relationship with food. Additionally, we will review any current lab work and/or notes from your physician. This will help me gain a deeper understanding of your individual needs and preferences, enabling me to begin creating the foundation of a personalized plan tailored specifically to your needs and goals.
How do I prepare for my initial consultation?
Once your initial consultation is booked, be sure to add the appointment to your calendar and keep an eye on your inbox for important next steps. You may receive messages from Healthie or Berry Street, my HIPAA-compliant telehealth and billing partners. These emails may include forms, insurance updates, or portal access details. To prepare for your session, please have a full list of current medications and supplements ready, and upload any recent lab work you'd like reviewed before our meeting.
Do I need follow-up sessions?
Follow-up sessions are essential to your ultimate success! Developing new eating and lifestyle habits requires time, motivation, and coaching to create lifelong change. During follow-up sessions, our focus will be on reassessing your lifestyle and nutrition choices, celebrating your successes, and equipping you with the necessary tools to tackle any obstacles that may arise. Together, we will refine your plan and goals through personalized education on nutrition and lifestyle. We can make modifications to the plan as necessary and help you stay on track.
How often will I need a follow-up session?
Creating sustainable diet and lifestyle changes takes time, support, and space to ask questions as they arise. Regular check-ins—either weekly or biweekly—tend to be the most effective way to build momentum and see lasting results. We’ll work together to personalize your follow-up schedule in a way that fits your goals, lifestyle, and necessary level of support.
Supplements and Testing
Do you offer laboratory testing?
Yes, nutritionally-focused laboratory testing is available at an additional upfront cost, and availability may vary by state of residence. Nutrigenomic testing can also be added at any time during your care. Clients often have 'normal' conventional lab results, yet they still feel 'off'. Using functional lab ranges and tests to see how the body is utilizing (or reacting to) nutrients, hormones, and other compounds helps direct the course of your wellness plan and can keep us from wasting time (and money) on guesswork.
How do I keep my other healthcare providers aware of the work we are doing together?
With your signed consent, communication can be sent about your personalized plan to your other healthcare providers inviting collaboration to ensure you receive comprehensive care.
Do you recommend supplements?
Although I believe in a food-first approach, most of the time nutritional supplements are part of your plan. It can be challenging to get all the nutrients you need through diet alone, especially when trying to establish healthy eating patterns. Even with a healthy diet, you may still require additional supplements to help you feel your best and help support any chronic conditions you may have.
How much will my supplements cost?
Since each plan is individualized, the exact cost is not predetermined. Discounts are offered on all professional-grade supplements to anyone who orders through my online dispensary. This provides a lower cost than what you are likely to find if you were to search for the same quality products on your own.
Where do I order my supplements?
Supplements are shipped directly to you through my online dispensary supported by Fullscript. To access online ordering go to: https://us.fullscript.com/welcome/jshawgo or use the link at the bottom of the page.
Billing & Payments
Do you take insurance?
Yes! I’m currently in-network with Aetna and United Healthcare, with additional plans being added soon. Most clients with coverage pay $0 out of pocket. I work with insurance in the following states: Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Texas, and Virginia.
How does billing and insurance work?
All of my billing and insurance is managed through Berry Street, my trusted billing and telehealth portal partner. They handle verification of benefits, claims, payment processing, and any questions about coverage or payments. Of course, I’m always here to help guide you through the process or connect you with the right support.
What forms of payment do you accept?
All major credit cards, debit cards, and HSA/FSA cards are accepted forms of payment. Please check with your HSA/FSA provider to confirm coverage of nutritional consultations and follow-up sessions.
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Get started by booking your free Discovery session today!
The Process
Review FAQ and Policies
Learn about what to expect when working with me.
Discovery Session
Let’s chat to determine if I’m the right nutritionist for you.
Initial Consultation
An in-depth assessment of your nutritional health.
Follow Up Sessions
Ongoing support and monitoring to set you up for success.