“Working With an NYC Dietitian: Everything You Need to Know” was written by Gabi Abreu, BSc and edited/reviewed by Jackie Silver MHSc, RD.
Medical Disclaimer: The information in this article is meant for educational purposes only. It is not intended to be personalized medical or nutrition advice. For a plan tailored to your needs, please consult with a Registered Dietitian or qualified healthcare professional.
Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links with which I may earn a small commission but at no additional cost to you. Affiliate links help bloggers like me to provide you with free content. All opinions expressed here are genuine.
Last updated: June 13, 2026
Looking for an NYC Dietitian?
Are you looking for an NYC dietitian who truly understands your unique needs or those of your neurodivergent loved ones? Then you’re in the right place! Navigating nutrition can be overwhelming, especially when considering sensory preferences, food aversions, executive dysfunction, and busy schedules. But with the right support, building a balanced and enjoyable approach to food is possible.
At Jackie Silver Nutrition, we take a compassionate, personalized approach to nutrition, helping neurodivergent children, teens, and adults thrive. We prioritize a weight-inclusive, evidence-based framework that respects each client’s lifestyle and sensory needs, making eating a less stressful and more positive experience.
The Role of an NYC Dietitian
New York City is a fast-paced, diverse environment with endless food choices, but that can also make nutrition overwhelming. As NYC dietitians, we understand the challenges that come with navigating grocery stores, eating out, and maintaining a nutritious diet amidst a busy lifestyle.
Our approach is rooted in real-world strategies that fit seamlessly into everyday life—whether that means finding sensory-friendly snacks, meal prepping for ADHD-friendly routines, or helping clients build confidence in their food choices.
Tailored Nutrition Support
At Jackie Silver Nutrition, we recognize that no two people are the same, which is why we take a highly personalized approach. Our support includes:
- Personalized Meal Prep Skill-Building: We help clients build the skills and habits needed to simplify meal planning while considering food preferences, texture sensitivities, and specific dietary restrictions.
- Food Aversion Support: We use gentle, step-by-step techniques to help expand food choices while respecting comfort levels.
- Navigating NYC Grocery Stores: From Trader Joe’s to Whole Foods to local NYC markets, we guide clients on how to shop for nutritious, neurodivergent-friendly options.
- Managing Food Anxiety & Overcoming Barriers: We help clients work through concerns related to energy levels, decision-making around food, and the challenges of meal consistency.
- On-the-Go Strategies: Whether it’s packing easy snacks or finding accessible food options while commuting, we make nutrition work for real-life situations
Working with an NYC Dietitian: What Makes Jackie Silver Nutrition Unique?
Inclusive Care Philosophy
Jackie Silver Nutrition was founded on the belief that nutrition should be accessible, inclusive, and free from guilt or restriction. Our approach is rooted in a weight-inclusive, Health at Every Size (HAES) philosophy, where we focus on the many indicators of health—such as blood test results, energy levels, gut symptoms, mood, focus, and more—that are unrelated to the number on a scale. Our goal is to empower individuals to create a positive relationship with food, free from shame or pressure, and prioritize overall well-being.
Expertise in Neurodivergent Nutrition
Supporting neurodivergent individuals requires specialized knowledge, and that’s where we shine. We work with individuals with ADHD, autism, ARFID, and intellectual/developmental disabilities (IDD), helping them develop sustainable eating habits that fit their unique needs and brains.
Our expertise includes:
- SOS-Trained Techniques: These strategies help selective eaters and those with sensory challenges feel more comfortable trying new foods.
- Mindfulness-Based Eating Awareness Training (MBEAT): We encourage mindful eating habits that reduce stress and promote intuitive eating.
- Collaboration with Caregivers & Schools: We work with families, educators, and group homes to create a supportive nutrition environment.
Our Services Include:
Our personalized one-on-one nutrition counseling sessions provide expert guidance to help clients navigate their unique dietary needs. We collaborate closely with individuals to set practical, achievable nutrition goals that support their well-being while considering their sensory preferences, executive functioning challenges, and lifestyle factors. We work with neurodivergent children, teens, adults, and families to create tailored solutions that fit their needs.
- Online courses
Our Meal Prep Made Easy (MPME) course is specifically designed to teach meal prep skills tailored for neurodivergent adults, including those with ADHD and ASD. Developed with input from focus groups, it offers strategies customized to different learning styles, making meal planning and preparation feel more manageable and achievable for individuals with unique needs.
By the end of the course, clients gain confidence, reduce meal-related stress, and free up time for other important aspects of life by learning how to simplify the task of feeding themselves.
- Consulting Services and nutrition education workshops
We provide expert consulting services for organizations, schools, healthcare facilities, and companies looking to enhance their nutrition programs or create inclusive food environments.
Whether it’s developing nutrition education resources, advising on neurodivergent-friendly menus, or partnering on social media, we bring evidence-based expertise to help businesses better support diverse dietary needs. This includes:
- Speaking engagements: Our team of dietitians is available to offer virtual or in-person workshops to organizations, corporate companies, schools, and more. We cover a wide range of topics, including meal planning for neurodivergent adults, nutrition for mental health, healthy eating at the office, mindful eating skills, and selective eating.
- Recipe development: We create neurodivergent-friendly, easy-to-follow recipes that align with various dietary needs. Whether it’s for brands, publications, or personal use, our recipes prioritize taste, accessibility, and sensory-friendly ingredients.
- Social Media: We partner with brands on sponsored content, user-generated content (UGC), and product showcases through engaging Instagram reels, stories, and static posts. Some of our past partnerships include Sperri and Ontario Dairy. If you’re a brand interested in working together, reach out to explore creative collaboration opportunities!
Meet Your NYC Dietitian: Jackie Silver
Hi, I’m Jackie! I’m a Registered Dietitian with a Master of Health Science (MHSc) in Nutrition Communication, and I’m passionate about making nutrition more accessible for neurodivergent and disabled individuals.
Through my private practice, blog, and Instagram (@accessiblewellness), I help autistic adults, individuals with ADHD, ARFID, and intellectual or developmental disabilities build sustainable, stress-free nutrition habits. My approach is inclusive, flexible, and rooted in evidence-based strategies.
My passion for this work is both personal and professional—I know firsthand what it’s like to navigate the healthcare system as a disabled woman, and I saw a real gap in nutrition support for these communities. After working with Special Olympics Ontario to deliver nutrition workshops for athletes with intellectual and developmental disabilities, I knew I wanted to dedicate my career to this space.
On my blog, you’ll find simple, nutritious recipes and helpful insights on topics related to neurodivergence, disability, and well-being. My goal is to empower you with the tools and knowledge to make eating well easier, no matter your abilities or lifestyle.
Outside of work, I enjoy activities like yoga, pilates, swimming, rock climbing, cooking, and baking. I also love meditating, journaling, traveling, visiting museums, watching theater, exploring new restaurants, socializing with friends and family, and spending time outdoors..
I’m so glad you’re here, and I look forward to supporting you on your wellness journey.
Success Stories
Real Results from Our NYC Dietitian Services
We love seeing our clients thrive! Here are some success stories. Please note that names have been changed to respect confidentiality.:
“Working with Jackie was an amazing experience! I was looking for a dietitian to help me with my food intolerances, healthy meals, and meal prep ideas. Over the past 4 months, Jackie has been incredibly helpful. She’s attentive, informative, and so kind. I feel so much more confident in my eating habits now and would highly recommend working with her. Can’t wait to continue this journey!”
-Sarah P.
“After being diagnosed with ADHD and struggling with rapid weight loss due to medication, I found it difficult to eat enough. I lost my hunger cues and couldn’t manage to get enough calories in, especially with my specific food preferences. Jackie helped me work through these challenges, offering practical solutions that fit into my busy life. She made grocery shopping, meal prepping, and cooking feel easy. Thanks to Jackie, I’ve been able to maintain my weight and feel prepared with strategies for when things get tough.”
– Emily R.
“Jackie is amazing! The psychological tips and practical meal planning advice have been so beneficial. Unlearning diet culture has been tough, but having Jackie as a guide has made it so much easier. She’s been such an invaluable part of my journey toward a healthier relationship with food.”
– Amanda L.
“Jackie’s practice is inclusive and accessible for anyone and everyone. I’m autistic and have struggled with eating food and proper nutrition for my whole life; Jackie was able to help me work within my sensory limits to find a healthy outlook regarding nutrition. She never tried to force me to “get over” my food aversions, and she always respected my boundaries regarding safe foods and sensory sensitivity. She is comfortable working with neurodiverse clients, and her practice stems from a weight-inclusive approach to healthy eating.
She is mindful of how taxing it can be to change food habits, and she is incredibly patient. I never felt like I was “failing” at nutrition while working with her. She also responds quickly when messaging her outside of scheduled sessions.
She is one of the kindest people I’ve ever met and I truly cannot recommend her practice enough.”
-Scott
“Working with Jackie has been an eye-opening experience. I first came to her regarding my son’s narrow palette of food choices and needing to gain weight. He is ASD and ADHD and medication suppresses appetite so there is a lot of factors involved. Jackie had experience with these situations and so much knowledge to share while also being mindful of what is manageable for our lifestyle. My son has made progress in trying new foods and I have learned so much from her. So grateful for our sessions!”
– Samantha
What to Expect When Working with an NYC Dietitian at Jackie Silver Nutrition
Working with a dietitian should feel supportive, empowering, and tailored to your needs. At Jackie Silver Nutrition, we take a personalized approach to nutrition, recognizing that every individual’s relationship with food is unique.
Whether you’re looking to expand food choices, navigate sensory challenges, or create sustainable habits, our personalized nutrition packages can guide you every step of the way. Our packages range from basic support to more in-depth, giving you the flexibility to choose which option works best for you.
Your First Session with an NYC Dietitian
Initial Consultation:
Your first session is all about getting to know you and your needs. Here’s what you can expect:
- A Deep Dive into Your Nutrition Needs – We’ll explore your medical history, daily eating patterns, food preferences, lifestyle, sensory sensitivities, aversions, and any challenges you or your child may be facing.
- A Judgment-Free, Collaborative Approach – Together, we’ll set realistic and meaningful goals that fit your lifestyle, abilities, and comfort level.
- Personalized Strategies to Get Started – You’ll leave with a few practical, easy-to-implement recommendations to help build confidence and progress right away.
Ongoing Support:
We know that nutrition changes take time, which is why we offer continued support to ensure long-term success. Our follow-up sessions focus on:
- Step-by-Step Guidance – We’ll work through specific food-related challenges, whether it’s expanding a limited diet, improving mealtime structure, or making grocery shopping easier.
- Educational Resources for Individuals, Families and Caregivers – We provide tools, strategies, and meal ideas to help reinforce progress at home.
- Flexible Scheduling – Sessions are typically spaced 4–6 weeks apart, giving you time to implement changes at a comfortable pace.
Nutrition Packages
- Basic Package: Our basic package starts with three sessions, providing essential guidance and tailored recommendations.
- Tier 2 Transformation Package: This package offers in-depth support, including 5 comprehensive coaching sessions and specialized resources.
To learn more about our nutrition packages, click here! No matter which package you choose, our goal is to help you or your child build a positive, stress-free relationship with food in a way that works for them.
Areas We Support: Helping Neurodivergent Clients Thrive
Adult Nutrition Support
We support our adult clients with the following:
- Individualized nutrition support for ASD, ADHD, IDD (Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities), ARFID, Down Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, and Paralysis (Spinal Cord Injury & Spina Bifida).
- Disordered eating – Gentle, weight-inclusive strategies to support those struggling with restrictive eating patterns.
- Chronic disease management and prevention (such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart disease)
- Digestive health (constipation, diarrhea, IBS)
- Meal prep and planning
- Food aversions and diet expansion – Guidance on food acceptance and sensory-friendly nutrition strategies.
- Mindful eating (body acceptance, learning to listen to internal hunger/fullness cues, slowing down the pace of eating)
- Neurogenic bowel (constipation / diarrhea)
- Pressure wounds
- General healthy eating
- Maximizing nutrition on therapeutic diets (pureed, minced, thickened fluids) for dysphagia or stroke
- Malnutrition & weight gain for those who are undernourished
Pediatric Nutrition Support (Children & Teens)
Whether your child is navigating life with autism, ADHD, ARFID, an IDD, cerebral palsy, Down Syndrome or more, we’re dedicated to providing personalized care to support their health and well-being. We can provide support in the following areas:
- Support for growth and development, introducing new foods, and managing allergies.
- Meal time peace – practical strategies to create a stress-free mealtime environment.
- Digestive health (constipation, diarrhea, bloating)
- Picky eating and diet expansion
- Weight gain for children who are underweight
- Nutrient deficiencies (such as low iron, B12, vitamin D, etc.)
- Possible supplement recommendations
- Mindful eating skills for kids
- Ensuring adequate food intake for kids on ADHD meds with low appetite
- Meal planning skills for teens and/or families
- Guiding parents on how to communicate with their kids about food and body image in a neutral and supportive manner
We also work with clients outside of these populations – our services are open to all. Please inquire to see if we’re a good fit.
Why Choose Jackie Silver Nutrition?
We stand out because of our:
- Compassionate, client-centered approach that prioritizes inclusivity and real-life solutions.
- Proven results that showcase the positive impact of our work.
- Commitment to ongoing education to stay at the forefront of neurodivergent nutrition.
Are Our Services Covered by Insurance?
Our services are private pay and we do not bill directly to insurance, however many insurance plans offer out-of-network reimbursement for dietitian services through a superbill. We recommend contacting your insurance company to confirm.
Additionally, Self-Direction Services from the Office for People with Developmental Disabilities in New York may cover our services. We also offer sliding scale spots and payment plans to make care more accessible.
Work with an NYC Dietitian Today
At Jackie Silver Nutrition, we believe nutrition should be simple, enjoyable, and accessible to everyone. Book a FREE 15-minute discovery call today to learn how we can support you!
Explore Our Services:
For more expert tips and insights, follow us on Instagram @accessiblewellness
TL;DR – Working With an NYC Dietitian
Looking for an NYC dietitian who understands neurodivergence, sensory sensitivities, food aversions, and busy lifestyles? Jackie Silver Nutrition provides personalized, weight-inclusive nutrition support for children, teens, adults, and families.
Rather than focusing on restrictive diets or weight loss, Jackie Silver Nutrition helps clients build practical, sustainable eating habits that work with their unique needs, preferences, and challenges. Support is available for autism, ADHD, ARFID, intellectual and developmental disabilities, chronic health conditions, picky eating, meal planning, digestive concerns, and more.
Services include 1:1 nutrition counseling, meal prep education, online courses, workshops, consulting, and caregiver support. Sessions are collaborative, judgment-free, and designed to help clients make meaningful progress at a comfortable pace.
The practice takes a neurodiversity-affirming approach, respecting safe foods, sensory preferences, and individual goals while helping clients improve nutrition, confidence, and their relationship with food.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
An NYC dietitian helps individuals and families improve their nutrition through personalized guidance, education, and practical strategies. This may include meal planning, managing health conditions, expanding food variety, improving eating habits, addressing nutrient deficiencies, or navigating food aversions and sensory challenges.
Jackie Silver Nutrition specializes in neurodivergent and disability-informed nutrition care. The practice takes a weight-inclusive, evidence-based approach that prioritizes overall well-being rather than focusing on weight alone.
Support is tailored to each individual’s sensory preferences, executive functioning needs, lifestyle, and goals.
The practice works with:
– Autistic children, teens, and adults
– Individuals with ADHD
– Individuals with ARFID
– People with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD)
– Parents and caregivers
– Individuals managing chronic conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and digestive concerns
– Anyone looking for practical, personalized nutrition support
Yes. Helping selective eaters expand their food choices is one of the practice’s specialties.
Strategies are gentle, sensory-informed, and individualized. Rather than forcing foods or eliminating safe foods, the goal is to gradually build comfort and confidence around eating.
Absolutely.
The practice has extensive experience supporting autistic children, teens, and adults. Nutrition recommendations are adapted to sensory preferences, food aversions, routines, executive functioning differences, and individual support needs.
Yes, Jackie Silver Nutrition supports people with ADHD!
Support may include:
– ADHD-friendly meal planning
– Simplified meal prep systems
– Managing appetite suppression from ADHD medications
– Grocery shopping strategies
– Building sustainable eating routines
– Reducing overwhelm around food decisions
The initial consultation focuses on getting to know you (or your child) and understanding your unique needs.
Topics may include:
– Medical history
– Current eating habits
– Food preferences and aversions
– Sensory sensitivities
– Lifestyle and routines
– Nutrition goals
– Challenges related to food, meals, or health
You’ll leave with practical recommendations and a clear plan for next steps.
No, you do not need a formal diagnosis of autism, ADHD, ARFID, or any other condition to benefit from nutrition support. Services are available to anyone looking for personalized guidance.
Common areas of support include:
– Picky eating
– Food aversions
– ARFID
– Meal planning and meal prep
– Nutrient deficiencies
– Digestive issues (IBS, constipation, diarrhea, bloating)
– Weight gain for undernourished individuals
– Diabetes management
– High cholesterol
– High blood pressure
– Mindful eating
– Disordered eating
– Feeding challenges in children
Yes, nutrition counseling is offered virtually, making support accessible to clients throughout New York and beyond.
Yes! Parents and caregivers receive practical guidance on topics such as:
– Managing picky eating
– Creating positive mealtime environments
– Introducing new foods
– Supporting growth and nutrition
– Navigating food-related challenges at home
Yes. Additional services include:
– Meal Prep Made Easy online course
– Nutrition education workshops
– Corporate wellness presentations
– School and organizational consulting
– Recipe development
– Brand partnerships and social media collaborations
Services are private pay and are not billed directly through insurance.
However, many insurance plans provide out-of-network reimbursement for dietitian services through a superbill. Coverage varies by plan, so it’s recommended that clients contact their insurance provider directly to verify benefits.
Some individuals in New York may also be able to access coverage through Self-Direction Services.
Follow-up sessions focus on building skills and creating sustainable changes over time. Support may include:
– Troubleshooting challenges
– Expanding food variety
– Meal planning strategies
– Nutrition education
– Goal tracking
– Caregiver coaching
– Personalized resources and recommendations
Sessions are typically scheduled every 4–6 weeks to allow time for gradual implementation.
You may benefit from working with a dietitian if:
– Meals feel stressful or overwhelming
– You struggle with food variety or picky eating
– You have sensory sensitivities that impact eating
– You want support managing a health condition
– You need help with meal planning or meal prep
– You want a more positive, sustainable relationship with food
A free discovery call can help determine whether nutrition counseling is a good fit for your needs.
Link to some of our blog posts:
- Top 5 Reasons You Need an ADHD Nutritionist
- Top 5 Reasons You Need an Autism Nutritionist
- My Journey to Becoming a Registered Dietitian
- Gentle Nutrition: A Compassionate Approach for Neurodivergent Folks
- Meal Prep for Picky Eaters: A Parents’ Guide
About Gabi
Gabi Abreu, BSc, is a Nutrition & Dietetics graduate from Toronto Metropolitan University and the Blog & Social Media Manager at Jackie Silver Nutrition. She is also the founder of the Working Woman’s Health Collection. WWHC was created with the purpose of inspiring women to achieve a healthy relationship with food, while taking into consideration the busy lifestyles that we live today. Beyond her professional pursuits, she loves experimenting with new recipes, trying new workout classes, and indulging her love for adventure through travel!
About Jackie
Jackie is a Registered Dietitian whose mission is to empower and support the neurodivergent and physically disabled communities through nutrition. Jackie runs a virtual private practice, providing services in Ontario and New York, as well as a blog which has simple recipes and health information tailored to these communities. She loves cooking, exercising, traveling, journaling, and spending time with family and friends.