JULIE’S EXPERIENCE AND TRAINING…

I’m a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with over 30 years of experience helping people use nutrition to support their health and well-being. My background spans clinical care, private practice, education and work with individuals and groups across different stages of life.

Nutrition science is complex, and sorting through conflicting advice can be overwhelming. My role is to help you understand what is relevant to your health, make sense of your options, and translate current research into practical strategies that fit your needs and your life.

A Blend of Nutrition Science and Whole-Person Care

I earned my nutrition degree at the University of Northern Colorado and completed my dietetic internship at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston. I am a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and board-certified in Integrative and Functional Nutrition through the Integrative and Functional Nutrition Academy. I have also completed two Food As Medicine trainings through the Center for Mind-Body Medicine and serve as a mentor for the Integrative and Functional Nutrition Academy.

My professional path has brought together two areas I’m especially passionate about: the science of nutrition and the psychology of eating.

For decades, I have incorporated an understanding of the emotional and psychological dimensions of our relationship with food and our bodies into my work, including vast experience with eating disorders and body image concerns. My subsequent training in Integrative and Functional Nutrition deepened my understanding of the connections among nutrition, physiology, lifestyle and health.

Today, I draw on this breadth of experience to provide individualized, evidence-based nutrition care that considers the whole person—not just a diagnosis, symptom or laboratory result.

Areas of Clinical Focus

My work includes nutrition support for:

  • Metabolic and cardiometabolic health: Prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, elevated cholesterol and metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD).
  • Women’s health: Nutrition during perimenopause and menopause, and support for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS/PMOS) and related metabolic and hormonal concerns.
  • GLP-1 nutrition support: Meeting nutritional needs, supporting muscle health, addressing digestive concerns and navigating changes in eating patterns during treatment.
  • Digestive health: Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), celiac disease and other nutrition-related digestive concerns.
  • Brain and mental health: Exploring the connections among nutrition, gut health, cognitive function and emotional well-being.
  • Food relationship and body image: Supporting a more flexible, informed and compassionate approach to eating, with sensitivity to individual goals and experiences.

My approach combines current nutrition science with an integrative perspective, practical strategies and respect for each person’s needs and preferences. Whether your goals involve improving metabolic health, managing digestive symptoms, navigating a life transition or developing a healthier relationship with food, I want you to feel informed, supported and actively involved in your care.

 

  A BIT MORE ABOUT JULIE…

I’m a Colorado gal at heart, but Santa Barbara has been home for about 37 years. I’ve raised my family here, built wonderful friendships and enjoyed being part of this community.

My own journey with Meniere’s disease and eventually losing my hearing, followed by receiving a successful cochlear implant, has been a significant part of my life. It has taught me a great deal about adapting to change, finding new ways forward and appreciating the many ways we can connect with others.

I work with clients virtually from my home, which gives me the flexibility to pursue some of the things I love outside of work. When I’m not seeing clients, I enjoy getting outdoors in my campervan, hiking, kayaking, cycling and camping on the central coast of California, the Pacific Northwest, Colorado, Utah and beyond. I also enjoy yoga, gardening, exploring farmers markets, cooking, and sharing meaningful rituals with family and friends.

In the past several years, I’ve enjoyed learning American Sign Language and singing in community song circle—new experiences that bring connection, creativity and continued learning into my life.

PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS

Julie is a member of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and The Integrative and Functional Nutrition Academy.