Kathleen Harding-Mendez

About Kathleen

For the past 23 years I've worked as a registered dietitian, drawing on training in food science, psychology, and public health. I studied Food Science and Human Nutrition at Washington State University, earned a Masters of Arts in Psychology from Chapman University, and completed and Masters of Public Health at Creighton. My career has spanned community health and hospital and clinical settings. As an RD and CD I offer evidence-based guidance delivered with dignity and compassion. Outside of work I love cooking, being outdoors, reading, traveling, and spending time with my family and dogs.

Approach to care

Science guides the recommendations I offer, and empathy shapes how we work together. I use evidence-based strategies within a weight-neutral Health At Every Size framework, focusing on sustainable habits rather than quick fixes. We'll set clear, practical steps and build accountability that fits your life, not the other way around. I take a holistic view of health, honoring emotional, social, and physical factors, and I spend time teaching the why behind changes so you can make informed, lasting choices without shame.

Your first session with Kathleen

We'll begin with a low-pressure conversation to understand your medical history, current routines, and what brought you here. I review any lab work or biometrics you have, and together we'll identify a couple of short-term, achievable goals based on your strengths and priorities. The visit is collaborative and judgement-free, so you don't need to have everything figured out beforehand. You'll leave with clear, practical next steps and a plan we can adjust as we go.

Education

BS Food Science and Human Nutrition Washington State University MA Psychology Chapman University Masters of Public Health Creighton University

Hobbies

Cooking, spending time with dogs and family, being outdoors, reading, traveling

Licenses and Certifications