Julie Merrell, RD

4.5
(36)
Video calls
In-person
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Background

Hello! I'm Julie, a Registered Dietitian with over 9 years of experience helping individuals and families build healthier, more enjoyable relationships with food without the pressure of perfection. In our sessions, you can expect a collaborative and supportive space where we celebrate small wins, laugh a little, and learn a lot. I’m here to be your cheerleader and your source of practical nutrition advice.

I frequently coach people with new diagnoses including diabetes, chronic kidney disease, PCOS, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and weight management issues.  I especially love working with people who are open to trying new foods and learning to like vegetables, whether you are 12 years old or 112!

Before launching my private practice, I spent years working in an acute care hospital and nursing home in Ridgecrest, California. I saw the need to help people make simple changes in ways that are relevant to their situation. I chose the private practice path because I love working with people who are motivated and ready to explore how food can improve their lives.

My passion for dietetics was born from a love of home economics and the science of food, but I quickly realized I’d rather connect with people than analyze zinc levels in a lab. Today, what fuels me most is hearing a client say, “I tried a carrot this week!”. That’s the kind of joy and progress I live for.

When I’m not talking food, you can find me watching magical girl anime, playing JRPGs or cozy games, or subjecting my family to a new cooking experiment.

Availability

Approach

"Struggling to enjoy vegetables? Want your family to eat better, without the food fights? Confused about what healthy means but tired of diets? I’m a Dietitian with 9+ years of experience helping people like you build sustainable habits, expand their food horizons, and celebrate small successes. If you're ready to learn, laugh, and try new things, let’s work together!"

Specialties

Weight Loss
Diabetes
High Cholesterol
High Blood Pressure
Food Allergies & Sensitivities
Vegan & Vegetarian
Kidney Disease
Pediatrics
Celiac
Sports Nutrition
Bariatric
General Nutrition

Modalities

🥦
Meal Planning
📊
Accountability
💞
Relationship With Food
🏃
Exercise
🌿
Holistic

Insurance accepted

Aetna, Cigna, Golden Rule, Kaiser, Optum, Oxford, Select Health, United Healthcare, United Medical Resources (UMR)

Seeing clients in

AZ, CA, CO, HI, MI, NJ, VA

Location

1540 Mayo St, Ridgecrest, CA 93355
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Reviews
4.5
36 Reviews
(36)
5
(273)
4
(27)
3
(27)
2
(27)
1
(4)
AI summary of written reviews

Clients consistently describe Jane as warm, knowledgeable, and easy to talk to. Many highlight noticeable improvements in their eating habits, energy, and confidence after just a few weeks of working with her.

While a handful of clients hoped for more structured follow‑up, the vast majority praise her for setting realistic goals and explaining nutrition in a way that finally “clicks.”

Overall, Jane is highly recommended for anyone looking for thoughtful, supportive guidance.

6 clients left publicly written reviews
2 days ago

Jane completely changed how I think about food. She’s patient, knowledgeable, and explains things in a way that actually makes sense.

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