If you’ve ever tried finding a good nutritionist in LA’s Westside, you know it’s like searching for a clean parking spot in Santa Monica—technically possible, but it takes time, patience, and a bit of luck. Between self-proclaimed “wellness coaches,” influencer-led cleanses, and clinics that charge a fortune for a smoothie plan, it’s hard to know who actually knows their stuff. Luckily, the Westside has its fair share of certified dietitians and licensed nutrition pros who mix science with realism—no weird powders or celery-juice sermons here.
Let’s break down a few trusted names across Santa Monica, Brentwood, and Culver City who can help you build a healthier relationship with food—without losing your mind (or your wallet).
Culina Health – Virtual and Local Experts
Founded by two registered dietitians, Culina Health blends medical-grade nutrition counseling with real-world eating habits. Their team includes credentialed RDs who handle everything from gut health and hormone balance to sports nutrition. They’re telehealth-first but also serve clients throughout Los Angeles, including the Westside.
They take most major insurance plans—Aetna, Blue Cross, UnitedHealthcare—which is a huge plus in this field. Their model focuses on long-term habit change instead of fad diets, using an evidence-based approach backed by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
Best for: Working professionals who want accountability and structured nutrition support
Typical cost: $100–$175 per session (often covered by insurance)
Nourishing Nutrition – Santa Monica
Registered Dietitian Lindsay Malone, MS, RDN, CSO, brings clinical expertise with a compassionate touch. She’s known for her balanced take on nutrition—less about restriction, more about balance. Her specialties include oncology nutrition, weight management, and plant-forward eating.
Her clients often describe her as “realistic”—the kind of expert who won’t judge your late-night In-N-Out run but will help you understand what your body needs next. Sessions are available both in-person and online.
Best for: People seeking science-backed, customized nutrition advice
Typical cost: $150–$200 per 60-minute session
Lisa Dreher Nutrition – Brentwood
Lisa Dreher, RD, LDN, is a clinical nutritionist who merges functional medicine and conventional nutrition. That means she looks at root causes—like inflammation, digestion, and hormones—rather than just prescribing generic meal plans.
She’s part of The UltraWellness Center network, with clients ranging from athletes to busy parents. Her plans often include lab work interpretation, making her one of the most medically aligned nutritionists in the area.
Best for: Those dealing with gut health, thyroid issues, or fatigue
Typical cost: $200–$250 per consultation
Westside Nutrition – Culver City
Small but mighty, Westside Nutrition has earned local credibility for helping clients make sustainable changes—especially those balancing long work hours and inconsistent meals. Founded by Rachel Berman, RD, CDN, they focus on mindful eating, blood sugar management, and lifestyle coaching.
Their sessions often combine food logging, behavioral psychology, and nutrition education in bite-sized steps. It’s less “diet plan,” more “life plan.”
Best for: Working adults wanting long-term lifestyle guidance
Typical cost: $125–$175 per visit
| Clinic/Nutritionist | Neighborhood | Specialty | Cost Range | Insurance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Culina Health | Virtual/Westside | General, hormone, gut health | $100–$175 | Yes |
| Nourishing Nutrition | Santa Monica | Plant-based, oncology, balanced eating | $150–$200 | Some |
| Lisa Dreher Nutrition | Brentwood | Functional medicine | $200–$250 | No |
| Westside Nutrition | Culver City | Lifestyle coaching, weight management | $125–$175 | Some |
The Functional Feed – Venice
If you’re drawn to holistic approaches but still want a credentialed pro, The Functional Feed (run by dietitian Caitlin Self, MS, CNS, LDN) offers personalized plans focused on gut repair, hormone balance, and stress resilience. Her approach is rooted in functional nutrition, blending lab testing and food psychology.
Her Venice practice has become a go-to for creatives and wellness-minded professionals trying to balance real food with real life.
Best for: Holistic nutrition lovers seeking science-based plans
Typical cost: $175–$225 per session
UCLA Health Center for Human Nutrition
For those who prefer something more clinical, the UCLA Health Center for Human Nutrition in Westwood is the gold standard. Staffed by registered dietitians and physicians, it offers programs for weight management, metabolic disorders, and preventive nutrition.
While it’s less “boutique” and more medical, it’s perfect for people with chronic conditions or anyone wanting their nutrition plan grounded in research.
Best for: Clinical nutrition, weight and metabolic health
Typical cost: Covered by most insurance plans
How to Pick the Right Nutritionist
Finding a nutrition expert you can trust isn’t just about credentials—it’s about fit. Here’s how to narrow it down:
- Check credentials. Look for RDN (Registered Dietitian Nutritionist) or CNS (Certified Nutrition Specialist) certifications.
- Avoid one-size-fits-all promises. If someone guarantees weight loss or detox results, walk away.
- Ask about insurance. Many Westside practices now accept coverage or offer sliding-scale rates.
- Look for specialization. Gut issues? Find someone focused on microbiome health. Sports goals? Look for sports dietitians.
- Start with a discovery call. Most clinics offer free 15-minute consults—use that time to gauge their vibe.
Table: Quick Comparison of Westside Nutrition Experts
| Name/Clinic | Focus | Insurance | Location | Website |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Culina Health | Virtual + local, general nutrition | Yes | Online/LA | culinahealth.com |
| Nourishing Nutrition | Balanced, oncology, plant-based | Some | Santa Monica | nourishingnutrition.com |
| Lisa Dreher Nutrition | Functional medicine, gut/thyroid | No | Brentwood | lisadrehernutrition.com |
| Westside Nutrition | Mindful, weight management | Some | Culver City | westsidenutrition.com |
| The Functional Feed | Holistic functional nutrition | No | Venice | thefunctionalfeed.com |
| UCLA Human Nutrition Center | Clinical, metabolic health | Yes | Westwood | uclahealth.org |
FAQs:
What’s the difference between a dietitian and a nutritionist?
Dietitians (RD/RDN) are licensed health professionals with formal education and clinical training. Nutritionists may have varied credentials—always verify before booking.
Do insurance plans cover nutrition counseling?
Many do, especially for conditions like diabetes or weight management. Check your provider’s preventive care policies on Covered California.
How many sessions will I need?
Most people see results after 4–8 sessions, but ongoing check-ins help with accountability and long-term change.
