FAQs — Nourish Health + Clinical Nutrition

Question 1

Who is Nourish Health + Clinical Nutrition?

Accepted Answer

Nourish Health + Clinical Nutrition is a Perth-based clinic led by a Certified Practicing Nutritionist (CPN) registered with AARPN and recognised as an allied health practitioner. Our practitioner holds a Bachelor of Health Science (Nutritional and Dietetic Medicine) and takes an evidence-informed, whole-person approach to nutrition care.

Question 2

What is a Clinical Nutritionist?

Accepted Answer

A Clinical Nutritionist is a university-trained health professional who specialises in using food and nutrition to support health and manage health conditions. Our practitioner holds a Bachelor of Health Science (Nutritional and Dietetic Medicine) and is registered with AARPN as a Certified Practicing Nutritionist (CPN), recognised as an allied health practitioner.

Question 3

What health concerns can you help with?

Accepted Answer

We support a wide range of health goals and concerns including bone and muscle health, cardiovascular health, digestive health, energy and fatigue, weight management (including support for clients on GLP-1 medications), teenage acne, and general wellbeing. If you're unsure whether we can help, please get in touch and we'll let you know.

Question 4

What is a Certified Practicing Nutritionist (CPN)?

Accepted Answer

A Certified Practicing Nutritionist (CPN) is a tertiary educated, degree qualified, clinically trained Nutritionist whose qualifications have been assessed and accepted as meeting the training and competency standards of the Australasian Association and Register of Practicing Nutritionists (AARPN). CPNs are bona fide primary care nutrition practitioners who practice Clinical Nutrition, which includes dietary modification and the prescribing of dietary supplements for both nutrient repletion and complex Clinical Nutrition purposes.

Question 5

How is a CPN different from a general nutritionist?

Accepted Answer

A CPN should not be confused with a non-clinically trained nutrition scientist (also termed a Nutritionist) who will not have undertaken 300 hours or more of supervised Clinical Nutrition Therapy clinical practicum training, in combination with the required clinical skills theory curriculum — including pathophysiology, pharmacology, independent clinical examination, independent complex case taking, counselling, and independent Clinical Nutrition prescribing. CPNs bring a critical skillset to the allied health dietary services space, namely their independent prescribing capacity, independent client assessment skill-set, and training in individualised preventative healthcare.

Question 6

What is AARPN?

Accepted Answer

The Australasian Association and Register of Practicing Nutritionists (AARPN) is a peak body representing professional, degree qualified, clinically trained Nutritionists, and is an ordinary member of Allied Health Professions Australia. AARPN operates as both a Certification Body — responsible for governance of the CPN credentialing program — and as an Association, which facilitates factors necessary for its members to operate in practice, including access to private health insurance rebating for Nutrition.

Question 7

Can a CPN help with health conditions and disease?

Accepted Answer

Yes. A CPN is trained to engage with both health and disease — from the perspective of supporting good health and supporting the remediation of disease states. CPN degree programs contain pathophysiology training and independent clinical examination, which provides the capacity to assess and monitor wellbeing and identify when referral to other health professionals is required, such as Medical Doctors, Psychologists, Counsellors, and Exercise Physiologists.

Question 8

Does a CPN diagnose conditions?

Accepted Answer

CPNs do not diagnose disease. CPNs are trained to take a detailed medical case history which can include information on previous medical diagnoses and results of previous pathology tests. A CPN will use acquired information in conjunction with their own clinical expertise and any additional pathology testing required to generate a differential assessment that translates the client's needs within a nutritional biochemical scientific paradigm. Any novel information or insight gained on emerging pathology is referred to the client's primary Medical Doctor.

Question 9

Do CPNs work with GPs?

Accepted Answer

Yes. CPNs work either independently or within multidisciplinary clinics, including alongside other allied health professionals and Medical Doctors. GPs are able to refer patients to a CPN — as they are able to refer to any allied health professional who holds expertise pertinent to their patient's needs.

Question 10

What happens at my first appointment?

Accepted Answer

Your initial consultation is a comprehensive appointment. We'll take a detailed look at your usual diet, lifestyle, health history, symptoms, stress, sleep and family history. From there we'll identify nutrient gaps, set clear goals and build a personalised nutrition plan. You'll also receive a body composition analysis (BIA), pathology referral letters if needed, a 7-day recipe guide, a nutrient reference guide and a health strategies handout.

Question 11

What is a follow-up consultation?

Accepted Answer

Follow-up consultations are appointments for returning clients. We'll review your progress, troubleshoot any challenges, refine your plan and update your goals. Regular follow-ups help keep you accountable and ensure your plan stays relevant as your life and health evolve.

Question 12

How often will I need to come back?

Accepted Answer

This varies depending on your goals and health concerns. Most clients benefit from a follow-up four to six weeks after their initial consultation, then as needed from there. Your practitioner will recommend a schedule that suits your situation at the end of your first appointment.

Question 13

How do I prepare for my consultation?

Accepted Answer

After booking you'll receive a short health intake questionnaire to complete before your appointment. This helps us make the most of your time together. It's also helpful to have a general sense of your usual eating patterns and any health concerns or goals you'd like to focus on.

Question 14

Do you offer telehealth consultations?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All consultations are available via telehealth (video call) or in person at our Perth clinic. Telehealth appointments are just as thorough as in-person visits and are a convenient option if you're not local or prefer to consult from home.

Question 15

How much do consultations cost?

Accepted Answer

Initial Comprehensive Consult: $240. Follow-Up Consultation: $150. Specialised services (Nutrition Support for Weight Loss on GLP-1s and Teenage Acne Nutrition Consultation): $240. All fees are payable at the time of your appointment.

Question 16

Can I claim through my private health insurance?

Accepted Answer

A private health rebate may apply depending on your fund and level of cover. AARPN facilitates rebating with all Nutrition recognising Private Health Funds. We recommend contacting your private health fund directly to confirm whether nutrition consultations are covered under your policy and what rebate amount applies.

Question 17

How do I pay for my consultation?

Accepted Answer

Payment details will be confirmed at the time of booking. Please get in touch if you have any questions about payment options.

Question 18

How do I book an appointment?

Accepted Answer

You can book by completing the booking form on our Consults page. We'll be in touch within one business day to confirm your appointment time and send through your intake form.

Question 19

What is your cancellation policy?

Accepted Answer

We ask that you provide as much notice as possible if you need to cancel or reschedule. Please get in touch directly to make any changes to your appointment.

Question 20

I have a question that isn't answered here — how do I get in touch?

Accepted Answer

You're welcome to use the enquiry form on our website and we'll get back to you as soon as possible. We're happy to answer any questions before you book.

Frequently asked questions

About the practice

About Certified Practicing Nutritionists (CPNs)

Consultations

Pricing and rebates

Booking

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