Helen Nutritional Therapy

The terms 'nutritionist' and 'nutritional therapist' are not protected titles, meaning anyone can use them regardless of training, qualifications & duration - some are only for a few months! However, registered nutritionists usually have formal education in the field and often work in research or within the NHS. Before seeking advice, always check a practitioner’s qualifications and membership in recognised governing bodies.

Nutritional therapists, if PSA accredited, are now referred to as PSA Registered Nutritional Therapy Practitioners. They apply nutrition science to promote health and wellbeing and take a personalised approach, tailoring nutrition and lifestyle plans to each individual. They often work privately and collaborate with medical professionals, sharing nutritional protocols where necessary.

Dietitians are regulated by the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and typically work within the NHS. They use evidence-based nutrition to create eating plans to manage specific medical conditions.

A PSA Registered Nutritional Therapy Practitioner, who may also use the title ‘nutritionist’, has undergone recognised training, is registered with CNHC, and is a member of BANT. These practitioners follow the Functional Medicine model, which considers an individual’s diet, lifestyle, and genetics. Functional Medicine is not a substitute for medical advice, and practitioners will refer clients to a GP for further investigation when needed.

Naturopaths, on the other hand, practise alternative medicine based on traditional practices rather than evidence-based science.

i trained for three years, at the renowned Institute for Optimum Nutrition (ION). I am also proud to be a member of the ION Alumni Community.

During the first consultation, we will complete a detailed ION (Institute for Optimum Nutrition) questionnaire together, discuss your health concerns, and, if necessary, I may recommend specific health tests, typically through the NHS. Private testing is only suggested when absolutely, necessary. At the second consultation, we’ll go through your personalised nutritional plan and address any questions.

For children (16 and under), an appropriate adult must be present during consultations.

Tests can be helpful in identifying the root cause of your symptoms. Many tests can be carried out for free by the NHS, and I only recommend private testing, if absolutely, necessary, following a detailed discussion of what’s involved, the cost, and what to expect. In most cases, NHS tests are sufficient.

My approach is food-first, so I base recommendations on food as much as possible. Supplements are only recommended when nutritional deficiencies are identified through tests &/or the ION questionnaire. Supplements may be required in higher doses at the start of a plan to restore levels, with dosage adjustments made over time as needed.

Most clients will need two consultations, either in-person, or online, for the Adult and Child Nutritional Packages. Full support is provided Monday to Friday for two weeks after the second consultation. The Complex Nutritional Package requires three consultations with four weeks of full support, ideal for clients taking multiple medications (polypharmacy: 5 medications or more). Please note these four weeks will be divided. Some clients will require longer support, on an as & when basis.