Episode Summary

In this insightful episode, Erin is joined by Stephanie Notaras, a seasoned dietitian, Director of the Dietician Counselling Skills Practice, and host of The Nutrition Counselling Podcast. Together, they dive into the often-overlooked emotional and psychological layers of nutrition change—what really keeps people stuck, and how both clients and practitioners can move through resistance, shame, and overwhelm toward lasting behavior change.

Stephanie shares evidence-based strategies for building confidence, increasing tolerance for discomfort, and setting realistic expectations in a world that constantly markets "quick fixes." Whether you're a healthcare professional or someone navigating your own wellness journey, this conversation is packed with wisdom, empathy, and actionable tools.

Episode Highlights

• Why change feels harder than it "should": Stephanie breaks down the gap between what people expect from nutrition changes and what actually happens—especially when it's slow, nonlinear, and emotionally taxing.
• The myth of motivation: Motivation isn't the whole story—Stephanie explains how confidence, not just motivation, is a crucial driver of sustainable change.
• Small wins are powerful: Rather than aiming for a full "food makeover," she encourages building confidence through small, meaningful actions within your capacity.
• What to do when clients have tried everything: Stephanie validates the experiences of chronic dieters and offers a framework for rebuilding trust in their ability to succeed.
• How to support all-or-nothing thinkers: She shares techniques for helping clients shift from perfectionism to progress-based thinking, even when they feel discouraged.
• Why clients stop showing up—and how to prevent it: Learn how to explicitly invite clients to return even when they feel like they've failed.
• The importance of setting expectations early: Teaching clients what to expect—especially the struggle—can increase their tolerance for change and help them stick with the process.
• Practitioner mindset shift: Erin and Stephanie discuss how providers can move from "fixers" to supportive guides, and why clients don't just need information—they need a therapeutic, individualized relationship.
• Google isn't the enemy: Stephanie offers a refreshing take on how to validate clients who come in with self-researched (and sometimes confusing) information, and how to build from it instead of shutting it down.

Resources Mentioned

• Check out Stephanie's offerings on her website: Click here
• Stephanie's Podcast: The Nutrition Counselling Podcast – A must-listen for dietitians and nutrition professionals focused on mindset and counseling skills.
• Follow Stephanie on Instagram: @dietitiancounsellingskills (note: "counselling" is spelled with two Ls – she's Australian!)
• Free Facebook Group for Professionals: Stephanie offers regular free trainings and education for dietitians and nutritionists inside her Facebook group. Join here

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Ready to dive in? Listen here.