Melanie Lehman, RD, LDN
Meet Melanie
When my young nieces and nephews ask me what I do, my response is simple, “I help people eat”. Such a basic response for a wildly complex way I use my passion for all things food, to support people struggling with their relationships to both food and body. To the adults in my life I say, “I’m an eating disorder dietitian” as a way to point out I take a non-diet approach, which is in direct contrast to what most people think of when they hear that I am a Registered Dietitian.
I support clients with diagnosed eating disorders, as well as clients who have disordered eating patterns and behaviors at all varying degrees, as well as those who struggle with intrusive thoughts about body image/weight. Having lived experience of an autoimmune disease, I also create a safe space for clients to receive support/navigate the way such diseases impact eating and taking care of self.
In this diet culture filled world we live in, it can be exhausting to figure out how to eat best for you and your individual mind/body. My aim is to guide my clients through use of evidenced based nutrition education, nutrition therapy, and “meet you where you are at” mentality.
A bit more about me…
My journey began at the University of New Hampshire, where I laid the foundation for my career in nutrition. Following my studies, I embarked on a challenging, yet rewarding experience at Massachusetts General Hospital, completing my dietetic internship. Once I became a dietitian, I discovered my calling while working at a residential/partial hospitalization treatment center. There, I cultivated a deep passion for supporting individuals on their journey to achieving a peaceful relationship with food in all of the levels of care. With a strong desire to make a longer term impact on clients, I transitioned to a private practice - outpatient setting in 2018, where I provided personalized nutrition therapy to clients seeking healing/change.
Now, as the proud owner of Lehman Nutrition LLC, I continue to pursue my passion as a non-diet dietitian. My counseling style is casual, yet direct with a side of humor! My favorite food is a cheeseburger and you can find me reading a good "romantasy" book, doing yoga (the slow, stretchy, yin kind), cooking food for my family and friends, or enjoying a snickerdoodle (or any cinnamon based) iced coffee!
I am a member of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics as well as MEDA (Multiservice Eating Disorder Association).
Services
1:1 Nutrition Counseling
1:1 nutrition counseling provides personalized and evidence-based guidance to support clients in establishing a healthy relationship to food and body. Through a tailored approach, I help clients navigate food challenges, address fears and anxieties related to eating/body, and develop sustainable strategies for maintaining nutritional and mental well-being. By fostering a supportive and non-judgmental environment, I empower my clients to make gradual but meaningful changes towards a fulfilling relationship to food and body.
1:1 Meal Support/Exposures
Meal support/exposures are a critical component of eating disorder/disordered eating treatment where individuals are gradually exposed to fear foods or eating situations. This structured approach aims to challenge and modify disordered behaviors and beliefs. By facing fears related to food/eating, individuals can heal their relationship to those foods and the eating experience as a whole. It is important for these exposures to be guided by healthcare professionals with expertise in eating disorders to ensure safety and effectiveness in the recovery process.
Cooking/Grocery Shopping Experientials
Cooking sessions are designed to assist the client in navigating and building confidence in the kitchen. I offer cooking basics through demonstration or guidance in the client’s own cooking space (kitchen, dorm room, work etc.). I aim to foster a realistic approach to building on the client’s baseline skill set to better meet their needs.
Grocery shopping/meal planning and preparation can present unique challenges for anyone. I assist in managing the logistics around grocery shopping and meal planning/prep, as well as providing guidance on ways to reduce overwhelm/cope with this sometimes daunting experience.
Insurance/Payment Details
I am currently in network with BCBS of MA.
I also offer superbills for insurance reimbursement for clients who choose to private pay.
Please email Melanie@lehmannutrition.com for rate details.
Follow me on Instagram - @Lehmannutritionllc
Testimonials