Vanessa Chrisman

About Vanessa

Hi, I'm Vanessa, an RD with 24 years of experience helping people build healthier relationships with food. I earned my B.S. in Food & Nutrition Dietetics from Southern Illinois University, with a Spanish minor. I've spent most of my career in a pediatric hospital/outpatient setting. I'm passionate about holistic, evidence-based care delivered with warmth & optimism. Raised vegetarian, I have a personal understanding of plant-based nutrition and love translating that knowledge into practical, sustainable choices. When I'm not working, I'm traveling, tending my garden, exercising outdoors, decorating my home, snowboarding, or dancing at a music festival.

Approach to care

My care philosophy centers on partnership and lasting change. I combine an evidence-based, science-focused approach with empathy and warmth, meeting you where you are and avoiding quick fixes or dieting culture. We'll work together to understand your unique relationship with food, your values, and your daily life, then translate science into doable steps. I practice with a Health At Every Size lens and a holistic view that treats food as part of sleep, stress, and mood. My goal is learning, empowerment, and sustainable habits you can keep for life.

Your first session with Vanessa

Our first appointment is all about you. We'll review your medical history and lab work, and establish short-term goals that feel meaningful. We'll dive into your relationship with food and explore your eating habits and typical daily intake in a non-judgmental space. You don't need to have everything figured out before we meet. This is a collaborative conversation where we map a realistic plan and identify 1–2 small steps to get started. I look forward to supporting you on this journey.

Education

B.S. - Food & Nutrition - Dietetics, Minor - Spanish, Southern Illinois University

Hobbies

traveling, gardening, exercising outdoors, home decorating, snowboarding, music festivals, dancing

Licenses and Certifications