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Profile picture of Barbara Ann Heerkens

Barbara Ann Heerkens

MPH, RDN

Specialities

Bariatric Care
Bariatric
Alzheimer's/Dementia
Psychiatric Conditions
Weight Restoration
Gender Affirming Nutrition
Underweight Nutrition
Vegetarian
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Approaches

Accountability
Exercise
Gender Affirming
Health at Every Size (HAES)
Intuitive Eating
Meal Planning
Personalized Macros
Relationship with Food
Research-Focused
Sleep & Stress Management
Supplement Management
Trauma-Informed
Weight Neutral
Low FODMAP
Elimination Diet
Functional Nutrition
Ketogenic Diet

Insurance

Age ranges

Infant (0-24 months)
Pediatric (2-11)
Adolescent (12-18)
Adult (19-69)
Older Adult (70+)

About

Barbara Ann is a Registered Dietitian with a master’s degree in Public Health and bachelor’s degrees in Education and Biology from Northern Arizona University. She has experience working with individuals of all ages but has primarily focused on supporting adolescents facing challenges such as disordered eating, behavior motivation, sustainable weight loss, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Her mission is to help clients heal their relationship with food and their bodies, overcome negative thought patterns, and feel empowered to enjoy a fulfilling life.

Approach to Care

Barbara Ann takes a client-centered approach, using Motivational Interviewing (MI) to ensure that sessions are led by the client’s goals and values. She creates a safe and supportive space where individuals feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and wellness challenges without judgment. By integrating techniques from Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT), Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT), and MI, she helps clients build lasting, positive habits and achieve sustainable wellness outcomes.

Locations

AK
AZ
CA
CO
CT
HI
ID
IL
IN
MA
MI
NH
NY
OK
OR
PA
TX
UT
VA
VT
WA
WI
WV
WY

Education

Barbara Ann earned her master’s degree in Public Health and bachelor’s degrees in Education and Biology from Northern Arizona University.

Hobbies

A true nature enthusiast, Barbara Ann enjoys spending her free time outdoors—camping, biking, paddleboarding, and exploring the beautiful landscapes of the West with her dog, Ayla. She also loves to cook and tends to her garden whenever she gets the chance.