Today we’d like to introduce you to Christyna Johnson.
So, before we jump into specific questions, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
Encouraging Nutrition started as an idea while I was in graduate school. I was still unsure of exactly how I wanted my career to look but I knew that I wanted to bring my skill set to the field of nutrition. While waiting to start my internship, I started my Instagram to connect with other dietetic interns and get to know other professionals outside of my geographic area. From this Instagram, I have connected with my nutrition philosophy of intuitive eating and Health at Every Size (R), I have brought social justice to my sessions with clients, and I’ve gotten to meet some of my mentors and peers across the country. My private practice is completely virtual (to avoid Dallas traffic) and allows me to meet with many people according to their schedules without having to mess with commutes.
I’m not sure I would have landed here had I not matched to a dietetic internship the first time I applied after undergraduate. As it currently stands, less than 50% of applicants match to an internship (thinking nursing school for RNs). I decided to move to Texas to fulfill a high school dream of mine. I feel in love and haven’t looked back.
We’re always bombarded by how great it is to pursue your passion, etc – but we’ve spoken with enough people to know that it’s not always easy. Overall, would you say things have been easy for you?
One of the most difficult things to adjust to initially was the number of people who would reach out and decide to not seek further services. I’m not going to fit everyone’s needs and I’m comfortable with that now. At first, it felt like I wasn’t doing something right. Now I know the clients that I work with have chosen me specifically and we work well together.
Another, more sneaky, struggle is managing time zones. Part of running a fully virtual business means that I can see clients who are out of state. I added some extra clocks to my calendar to help keep me in check! I also find it fun to be having just getting my day started when some of my clients are winding down for the day.
One thing I’ve felt the most prepared for are the quiet seasons. It’s a season where I can rest, and prepare for upcoming busy seasons. And in the moment, it feels a little uneasy. You can usually find me reading research or completing continuing education to better serve my clients.
Please tell us about Encouraging Nutrition.
Encouraging Nutrition is for anyone who is done with dieting and ready to take a self-care approach to nourishing themselves. I also work with those who have eating disorders or disordered eating. I utilized a variety of therapeutic approaches, including intuitive eating.
I am most proud of the work that my clients do. Showing up to each session, sharing the hard things, and sitting with the discomfort. I am incredibly fortunate and blessed to be apart of their journeys.
Being fully virtual sets me apart from many dietitians in the area. It allows me freedom in scheduling and work location.
Has luck played a meaningful role in your life and business?
I’m not sure luck has played a role, so much as consistency. Each day putting in the work. Sharing on Instagram, writing blog posts, creating a podcast, etc. Each piece has helped me connect with peers and clients in different ways.
Contact Info:
- Website: encouragingdietitian.com
- Phone: 14692095303
- Email: christyna@encouragingdietitian.com
- Instagram: encouragingdietitian
- Twitter: encouragingRD
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Brandon Respress
January 1, 2021 at 1:25 pm
This is a very inspiring article! Thank you for sharing it.