Question 1

What's the difference between a nutritionist and a dietitian in Australia?

Accepted Answer

Both are university-trained. Dietitians are accredited through Dietitians Australia and can work in clinical hospital settings. Clinical nutritionists registered with AARPN hold health science degrees and work in private practice with individualised nutrition care, functional testing, and supplement recommendations. Both can claim private health insurance rebates depending on your cover.

Question 2

What is postnatal depletion?

Accepted Answer

Postnatal depletion refers to the cumulative physical and nutritional load of pregnancy, birth and early motherhood — including iron loss, depleted omega-3 stores, micronutrient gaps, disrupted sleep, and altered thyroid and adrenal function. Research suggests symptoms can persist for years if unaddressed.

Question 3

Can clinical nutrition support perimenopause symptoms?

Accepted Answer

Perimenopause involves fluctuating hormones that affect sleep, mood, energy, weight, and cognition. Nutrition can play a supportive role through protein intake, micronutrients for hormone production, fibre for oestrogen clearance, and blood sugar stability. A clinical approach also reviews thyroid, iron and cortisol patterns that often overlap with perimenopause.

Question 4

Do you work with women who have Hashimoto's or thyroid issues?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Thyroid function is one of the most common areas supported clinically, including reviewing full thyroid pathology (not just TSH), looking at nutrient status affecting thyroid conversion, and considering gut and stress patterns that influence autoimmune thyroid conditions. All work is coordinated with your GP or endocrinologist where relevant.

Question 5

Do I need a GP referral to see you?

Accepted Answer

No referral is needed. You can book directly. If you're already working with a GP or specialist, communication can be arranged so your care is coordinated.

Question 6

Do you prescribe supplements?

Accepted Answer

Supplements are recommended only when there's a clear clinical rationale — based on history, symptoms, and where relevant, testing. Not a generic stack. Supplements support a foundation of food, sleep and stress management rather than replace it.

Question 7

Do you work online?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Consultations are online across Australia. Resources are sent before and after each session, and telehealth is the standard format for most clients because it fits around work and family.

Question 8

Can I claim through private health insurance?

Accepted Answer

Private health rebates for clinical nutrition consultations are available on some extras policies. Coverage varies by fund. The best step is to call your health fund and ask whether they cover AARPN-registered nutritionists.

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