Julia Velasco-Popov

About Julia

Hi there! I'm Vida, and I'm here to help you discover how food can be your best ally in feeling great. Growing up in a family where food was the center of every gathering, I know how important food is when it comes to building memories and staying connected. I earned my degrees from UCLA and Pace University and have worked in hospitals, community centers, and teaching kitchens, helping shape my unique approach to nutrition care. I'm particularly interested in how our minds and bodies work together, and how nutrition can play an essential role in supporting mental health and love staying up-to-date on the latest science to better help my clients. Whether you're managing heart health, diabetes, women's health concerns, or just want to feel better overall, I'm here to support you. I believe in taking care of the whole you. Together, we'll find foods and approaches you enjoy that fit your real life. My goal is to help you feel confident and empowered in your health journey!

Approach to care

My approach to nutrition care is deeply rooted in patient-centered principles, recognizing that each individual's health journey is unique and deserves personalized attention. I embrace the Health at Every Size philosophy, focusing on improving health outcomes and well-being rather than weight as the primary measure of success. Through motivational interviewing techniques, I create a supportive, non-judgmental environment where clients feel heard and understood, helping them discover their own motivations for change. My practice centers on empowerment, believing that lasting transformation occurs when individuals are equipped with the knowledge, tools, and confidence to make informed decisions about their nutrition and health. This collaborative approach ensures that clients become active partners in their care, fostering sustainable lifestyle changes that align with their values, preferences, and goals.

Your first session with Julia

During our first session, we'll get to know each other so I can understand how to best support your health journey. I'll learn about your nutrition goals, relationship with food, what mealtimes look like, your food preferences and restrictions, and your medical history. We'll also discuss your expectations and what you'd like to achieve through our work together. This conversation helps me understand your unique situation so we can create a personalized plan that fits your lifestyle and goals. My aim is to make sure you feel comfortable and heard from the beginning, setting the foundation for our collaborative approach.

Location

📍 Pleasantville, New York

Education

MS, Nutrition and Dietetics

Hobbies

I love cooking, eating, hiking, rock climbing, gardening, and searching for cool cafes!

Licenses and Certifications