Meet Tess Patterson MS RD LD RYT-200

My journey in nutrition and movement started at a young age. I have always had an affinity for food. I grew up an athlete and started to play competitive volleyball at the age of eight. I never fully understood the power of nutrition until after I my sports career ended though. After recovering from an eating disorder, relearning the power of nutrition, and rediscovering the joy of movement to fully celebrate all that my body could do for me, I knew it was my mission to give back. That’s a big reason I am as passionate about nutrition with my clients as I am today. I want to be the resource I didn’t know I needed then, but would have greatly benefited from as an active adolescent, growing into an active adult. With 8+ years of experience and background in higher level of care and outpatient eating disorder care and sports nutrition, giving back and teaching my clients how much their bodies’ do for them and how to nourish them is my life’s work and greatest gift!

Specialties:

  • Ages 16+ years

  • Athlete Specific Nutrition Needs (Experience in, but not limited to: Volleyball, Track/CC, Football, Baseball/Softball, Wrestling, Cheerleading, Gymnastics, Soccer, Basketball, Swimming, Endurance Sports- Endurance Running/Ultramarathons, Tennis, etc.)

  • Eating Disorders (Anorexia Nervosa, Bulimia Nervosa, Binge Eating Disorder, ARFID, OSFED/Orthorexia, Disordered Eating, etc.)

  • Breaking free of Diet Culture falsities and regaining Food Freedom

  • Body Image Concerns

  • Nutrition for Everyday Life

Licensure + Credentials:

Bachelor’s of Science in Dietetics + minor in Psychology— University of Nebraska-Lincoln (2016)

Master’s of Science in Nutrition & Health Sciences + minor in Educational Psychology— University of Nebraska (2019)

Iowa State University Dietetic Internship (1250+ hrs) — June 2018

Commission of Dietetic Registration (86014019)— Registered Dietitian (2018-Present)

Texas Department of Licensing + Registration (DT85864)— Licensed Dietitian

Oregon Health Authority (LD-D-10272047)— Licensed Dietitian

Registered Yoga Teacher 200-hr (2024- Present)

UESCA Certified Running Coach (2025- Present)

My Nutrition Philosophy + Framework:

  • Weight-inclusive approach: I support health and well-being by removing weight loss as the primary goal or assuming that body size determines health.

  • “All foods fit” philosophy: I encourage flexibility and enjoyment with food rather than labeling foods as “good” or “bad.” All foods have a place in a balanced diet.

  • Non-diet approach: I focus on building a positive, sustainable relationship with food and body rather than restrictive dieting.

  • Individualized care: I meet clients where they are and considers their unique needs, preferences, culture, experiences, and goals.