How can dietitians build stronger relationships and trust with clients? In Part 1 of this MENTORD Podcast series, Bethany and Danielle explore the role of client autonomy and consent in dietetic practice—and why these concepts are essential for ethical, effective care.

They share how clear, accessible practice policies can set the foundation for informed consent, and why consent isn’t a one-time form but an ongoing process, especially when involving dietetic interns in client sessions.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• What client autonomy really means in nutrition counseling.
• How consent protects both the client and the provider.
• Practical ways to write clear, concise, and understandable practice policies.
• Why ongoing consent is critical when interns or other providers are present.
• How centering client autonomy leads to stronger therapeutic relationships.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Ragen Chastain's Don't Weigh Me Cards

Weight Inclusive Innovators podcast

Center for Body Trust

Dana Sturtevant Motivational Interviewing Trainings

Stay Connected

• 📲 Follow us on Instagram → @mentordpod
• 🌐 Website → https://www.mentordpod.com/

Hosts

• Connect with Bethany: B. Wheeler Nutrition → @bethanydietitian
• Connect with Danielle: Southern Nutrition → @southernutritionllc

Extras

• ✨ Anti-Diet Designs Merch → Shop Now
• 🎧 Share this episode with another dietitian who needs mentorship

Enjoyed this episode? Don’t miss what’s next—follow The MENTORD Podcast on Spotify or Apple Podcasts and share it with another dietitian who needs mentorship.

About the Hosts:

Bethany Wheeler and Danielle Southern are registered dietitians with years of experience in outpatient care, eating disorder treatment and private practice mentorship. Together, they created The MENTORD Podcast to provide the support, tools and real-world conversations that dietitians wish they had in school.