Hi, I'm Maria Jose Cardenal (she/her), born and raised in Nicaragua, and currently pursuing my master and dietetic internship at Saint Louis University . My own journey through health challenges has inspired me to help others navigate theirs with personalized, evidence-based guidance. I strive to empower each person with compassion, understanding, and support as I continue to grow in my field.
Skills I Work on with my Clients
Weekly meal and grocery planning
Prepping food ahead of time
Simple cooking skills & easy recipes
Grocery shopping tips;Building balanced meals (no tracking required)
Portion sizes & meal timing
Snack & quick meal ideas
Counseling Style
Supportive and attentive: I listen carefully to your concerns and goals so you feel understood and encouraged.
Direct and clear: I provide straightforward guidance to help you make informed decisions.
Specialties
Weight management, Diabetes management, eating balance meals, and food allergies
Availability (Central Time)
Mornings (8–12): Sat
Afternoons: (12–4): Not available
Evenings (4–7): Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat
After 7 pm: Mon-Fri, Sat, Sun
Work with your counselor to set a schedule (weekly or every other week)
Attend 4 sessions, 60 minutes each
Reply to your counselor’s messages and complete any forms or worksheets
Participate fully — this is part of a graduate-level training course, and your involvement helps students learn
Respond to client emails within 24 hours (weekdays)
Coordinate schedules with clients and confirm meeting times clearly
Prepare for each session with a plan, but adapt to the client’s needs
Provide supportive, evidence-based guidance tailored to the client’s goals and background
Assign forms or worksheets thoughtfully and review them promptly
Maintain confidentiality and respect client privacy
Communicate clearly about what is within their scope as dietitians-in-training, and seek faculty guidance when needed