Our Approach

Nutrition counseling grounded in science, delivered with compassion

No generic meal plans and no all-or-nothing rules. Your life, your preferences and your health needs drive the plan, and we help you build habits you can keep for years, not weeks.

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Kelsey Shaughnessy, RDN, in a bright kitchen with oranges on the counter behind her
Our Philosophy

Why we do things differently

Most of our clients come to us frustrated, confused or stuck. They've cut carbs, counted calories and tried the latest plan, and they're still spinning their wheels. They want to feel in control of their eating, and they want to stop obsessing over every bite.

That's why Finesse Nutrition is built around a different idea: nutrition counseling works best when it's grounded in science and delivered with compassion. Your registered dietitian brings the expertise. You bring what you know about your own life. Together, you build a plan that fits it.

No more diet extremes

You won't find crash diets, cleanses or harsh restrictions here. We focus on balanced, sustainable eating patterns that improve your health without deprivation. All foods can fit, and we'll show you how to make moderation work in the real world, including the foods you love.

Health beyond the scale

Weight is one data point, not the whole picture. We pay just as much attention to your energy, lab values, sleep, mood and how you feel day to day. Progress like better blood pressure, steadier blood sugar or more energy counts, and we celebrate it.

Small habits that stick

Knowing what to do is only half the battle. We use proven behavior-change tools, like motivational interviewing, specific goal setting and simple changes to your environment, to turn good intentions into everyday routines. We start small, build one habit at a time, and plan ahead for the vacations, holidays and busy weeks that used to derail you.

Care that works with your doctor

If you're managing diabetes, high cholesterol or another condition, we coordinate with your physician, with your permission, so nutrition changes complement your medical care. We stay within our scope as registered dietitians and refer you to the right professional when something is outside it.

Are you a physician? Refer a Patient

Ready to start? The first call is free.

Tell us about your goals and we'll match you with the right dietitian. No commitment, no pressure — just a conversation.

Our Focus

The fundamentals we work on together

Lasting change comes from a few fundamentals, practiced consistently and adjusted as your life changes.

Registered dietitians Macie Fuquay and Kelsey Shaughnessy of Finesse Nutrition, smiling together at a kitchen island

Hunger and Fullness Cues

Relearn your body's natural signals so you eat before you're over-hungry and stop when you're comfortably satisfied.

Meal Structure

A consistent meal rhythm that fits your day, with balanced plates of protein, fiber-rich carbs and produce.

Protein and Fiber

The two nutrients that keep you full longer, added to meals you already enjoy rather than taking foods away.

Sleep, Stress and Movement

Better sleep, simple stress tools and movement you actually enjoy, because they all shape how you eat.

Client Stories

What clients say

I loved working with Kelsey! She is kind, non-judgmental and knowledgeable. As a newly diagnosed Diabetic, she helped me understand food! I would highly recommend anyone that needs help navigating their food intake to contact her. She truly cares!

Carole S.Roanoke, VA · Diabetes Management

I have been working with Finesse Nutrition for about one and a half years. I have had terrific results. Kelsey is excellent to work with — thoughtful and professional. If you are willing to put in the work, you will have great results.

Robert P.Virtual

I've tried every diet imaginable. This was the first time someone helped me understand why I was struggling, not just handing me a list of foods to avoid.

Sarah M.Richmond, VA

Ready to try a different approach?

If you're ready to ditch the diets and find a healthier rhythm with food, we're here to help. Start with a free intro call.

Contact information

Prefer to talk first? Call either location or email us. We respond within one business day.