Petra Dohnalova

About Petra

I’m a dietitian and lifestyle medicine practitioner who helps people improve their health, achieve sustainable weight loss, and feel confident in their food choices. I often work with individuals newly diagnosed with prediabetes or high blood pressure who want to take action early. I also specialize in vegan and vegetarian nutrition, supporting clients transitioning to or maintaining a plant-based lifestyle. I provide clear, evidence-based guidance to cut through overwhelming nutrition information, making it realistic, personalized, even fun and enjoyable! Working with me is collaborative and flexible. I listen, ask thoughtful questions, and create plans that fit your lifestyle, preferences, and goals. With experience in hospital and outpatient settings, eating disorder clinics, and community centers, I bring both clinical expertise and real-life experience. I provide a nonjudgmental space where honesty is encouraged, and clients feel empowered throughout their journey.

Approach to care

I provide personalized, evidence-based nutrition therapy rooted in empathy, collaboration, and respect for your unique needs. I take time to truly listen and understand your goals, preferences, cultural background, and day-to-day challenges. Together, we create realistic, sustainable nutrition strategies that fit into your busy life, without restriction, guilt, or perfectionism. As a lifestyle medicine practitioner, I also recognize that nutrition does not exist in isolation. When appropriate, I consider how factors such as stress, sleep, movement, and daily routines influence your eating patterns and overall well-being. My goal is to support meaningful, lasting behavior change through education, encouragement, and ongoing support, helping you feel confident, empowered, and cared for at every step.

Your first session with Petra

In our first session, my focus is on you: your goals, challenges, and most importantly, your “why.” Understanding why you want to make changes helps us create a plan that truly fits your motivations and lifestyle. We’ll explore your current habits, preferences, and routines, and I’ll make sure we’re a good fit for working together. Building a strong, collaborative relationship is key to lasting success. By the end of our session, we’ll set at least one realistic, actionable goal so you can start making progress right away. I’ll provide practical, evidence-based guidance designed to fit your life, support your health goals, and make the process feel doable and even enjoyable.

Education

MS in Integrative Nutrition Therapy, Stony Brook University of the State of New York; Dietetic Internship Program, Hunter College of the City University of New York; BS Nutrition and Dietetics, Queens College of the City University of New York ; AS Food and Nutrition, Nassau Community College, Garden City, NY

Hobbies

Hiking in nature, traveling and learning new cultures, gardening and growing herbs, exercising and running, photography

Licenses and Certifications