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How do you build rapport with patients as a registered dietitian?

I'm freshman studying dietetics and want to work as a clinical outpatient dietitian after school. I'm passionate about engaging in telehealth nutrition services and community outreach to improve public health.

college spring25 health public-health dietitian dietetics registered-dietitian
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Kelsi’s Answer

Building a good connection with each patient or client might be unique every time. To truly understand them, give them the chance to share their story. Encourage them to talk about themselves and their health journey. Make sure they feel listened to and understood by summarizing what they’ve shared. If it fits the situation, ask how you can best support them and what they hope to achieve by working with you.

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Thank you comment icon Great advice. I like to start the interaction with small talk, trying to establish some interests in common. José Augusto Gasparotto Sattler
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Ayiana’s Answer

Shadow a clinical outpatient dietitian. Wherever you have time after school, take that time and sit with someone who is working in the field you want to pursue. That way you can learn and network.
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Madalyn’s Answer

Take notes! Write down things they mention during sessions that may seem more personal (that you wouldn't include in the medical charting). Making your own notes the first few times you meet a patient can help you remember the patients story and if you check up on their situation such as "How did the move go?", "How is your mom doing?", etc. the patient can build trust with you and feel that you truly care.
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Jing’s Answer

Being an active listener is key to building a good connection with patients. Take the time to hear their stories and understand their true concerns. Avoid rushing to give advice. Show you are listening by nodding and thinking about what they say. When patients feel heard, they begin to trust you and are more open to forming a strong relationship.
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Jimmy’s Answer

In my experience, understanding a client's emotions often proves more beneficial than just offering nutrition advice. Developing skills in recognizing emotions and body language can help us understand how these factors influence a client's choices. I've found the most success when I connect emotionally with clients and discuss life issues beyond nutrition and wellness, acting as a neutral guide to help them move in the direction they naturally want to go. For instance, I had a client with digestive issues, and after talking with them, I discovered they were under a lot of stress due to financial instability. This stress was affecting their digestion, especially around meal times. It wasn't my specific food advice that helped, but rather suggesting a nutrition hypnotherapy app to manage their IBS and stress. While stress isn't always the direct cause, having the skills to identify underlying issues beyond diet can be crucial. I hope more practitioners develop these skills over time.
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