Beth McKinney is a lecturer in the College of Human Ecology and former Director of the Cornell University Wellness Program. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Nutritional Sciences and her Master’s degree in Health Education. Ms. McKinney’s expertise in coaching and counseling spans over 20 years and includes life coaching, nutrition counseling, wellness counseling, and behavior change. She also teaches counseling skills and behavior change techniques to Cornell undergraduates. A Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) and Certified Intrinsic Coach® with previous experience in both clinical and community nutrition, Ms. McKinney specializes in both nutrition education and behavior change.
Client-Directed Counseling for Nutrition ProfessionalsCornell Certificate Program
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Overview
In today’s evolving healthcare landscape, Registered Dietitian Nutritionists (RDNs) must do more than provide sound nutritional advice: They need to inspire lasting change through effective counseling. In this certificate program, you will explore evidence-based strategies that deepen client engagement, foster trust, and promote meaningful behavior change. By honing advanced counseling techniques, you’ll not only strengthen your clinical expertise but also build more collaborative, productive relationships with your clients. Upon completing these courses, you’ll be equipped to elevate your practice, increase client satisfaction, and confidently deliver impactful nutrition counseling.
You’ll have six months to complete the required elements for this certificate program, but this flexible approach allows you to finish sooner based on your schedule.
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How It Works
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Faculty Author
Key Course Takeaways
- Strengthen client interactions using social cognitive learning theory to promote lasting behavior change
- Interpret your and your clients’ non-verbal cues and self-manage during counseling sessions
- Combine intuition and your client’s perspective to correctly identify nutrition problems and develop solutions
- Recognize clients’ specific wants and needs to develop motivational goals aligned with their desire for change
- Enhance client confidence in achieving their goals through increased empathy
- Customize how you translate nutrition information to diverse clientele, blending this with your natural communication style

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Not ready to enroll but want to learn more? Download the certificate brochure to review program details.

What You'll Earn
- Client-Directed Counseling for Nutrition Professionals Certificate from Cornell University’s Division of Nutritional Sciences
- 40 Professional Development Hours (4 CEUs)
- The course in this program has been approved by the Commission on Dietetic Registration as self-study activities earning 40 CPE units
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Who Should Enroll
- Students from the United States must be Registered Dietitians (RD or RDN) or have a Certified Nutrition Specialist (CNS) certification issued by the American Nutrition Association (ANA)
- International students need to have a credential approved by the International Confederation of Dietetic Associations — full list available here: https://internationaldietetics.org/ndas
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$1,999
Client-Directed Counseling for Nutrition Professionals
| Select Payment Method | Cost |
|---|---|
| $1,999 |






