Advanced Nutrition Counseling

Catalog description

Application of theories and counseling techniques to the nutrition care process in different practice settings with diverse patients/clients. This class provides an opportunity for students to become proficient in the skills essential to successful nutrition counseling. We will examine current theories and state-of-the-art techniques of counseling, and apply them to a variety of settings including clinical, community, workplace, and home-based. Various behavioral and environmental factors, which may contribute to the maintenance of poor nutritional outcomes, will be critically assessed focusing on advanced skill development and the ability to handle challenging communication issues that arise within the nutrition care process. Students will gain proficiency through practicing techniques including client-centered counseling methods, motivational interviewing,and behavior change strategies, as well as principles of group counseling, facilitation, and effective team dynamics. Best practices for those with chronic diseases, obesity, eating disorders, lifespan counseling, and end of life issues will be discussed.