top of page

Health & Nutritional Counselling

Healing is a matter of time, but it is sometimes also a matter of opportunity, like the opportunity to nourish both mind and body together.

​

 Adapted from Hippocrates

colorful food

Research shows a profound connection between our habits and how we feel. Food can be a potent form of healing and well-being. The right nutrients can help balance pain, mood, and anxiety and improve cognitive function. I want to help you understand how specific foods and nutrients affect your body, mood, and energy levels and make intuitive and informed choices that support your overall well-being. 

​

In my practice, I don’t believe in diets, restrictions, or one-size-fits-all solutions. Instead, I focus on intuitive eating and compassionate self-awareness to help clients navigate their unique health journeys. This approach is especially helpful for those managing chronic illnesses or living with neurodiversity, where traditional “diet culture” often fails to address individual needs and lived experiences.

​

​Tailored Support for You

 

I have extensive experience working with: 

​

  • Autoimmune Diseases

  • Chronic Pain

  • Mental Health (Anxiety, Depression, ADHD, Autism)

  • Gut Health 

  • Cycling humans (PMS, PCOS, Endometriosis)

  • Preparation for Pregnancy and Breastfeeding

  • Perimenopause

  • Menopause

​

​My approach involves:

​

  • Identifying nutrient-dense foods that support energy, immune health, and symptom management.

  • Recommendation of supplements tailored to your needs 

  • Creating easy, flexible meal options that honour your body’s current capacity.

  • Exploring the gut-brain connection to support mental clarity and emotional well-being.

  • Addressing sensitivities or triggers while still celebrating food as a source of joy and comfort.

 
Honouring Neurodiversity in Nutrition

 

For neurodivergent individuals, sensory preferences, executive functioning challenges, and unique energy needs often influence food and eating habits. I offer:

​

  • Gentle, practical strategies to support consistent eating without adding stress.

  • Ideas for sensory-friendly meals that fit your preferences.

  • Tools to help manage food-related overwhelm or decision fatigue.

  • Encouragement to listen to your body’s unique signals and honour its needs.

 
A Holistic Perspective
​

My work is grounded in holistic care that integrates mind, body, and spirit. Together, we’ll explore how nutrition interacts with other aspects of your life, such as sleep, movement, and mental health, to create a personalized, sustainable path to wellness.

​

This isn’t about perfection or rigid rules. It’s about helping you feel empowered in your choices, nourished in your body, and supported on your journey to living well with chronic illness or neurodivergent traits. Through intuitive eating and a compassionate, evidence-based approach, I’m here to help you find balance and reclaim joy in your relationship with food.

Contact Me

For any questions you have, you can reach me here:

Nina Santiago, PhD

Registered Health and Nutrition Counsellor

Registered Psychotherapist (Qualifying)

computer desk

+ 1 (647) 932-1060

​

nina@authenticselfcounselling.ca

 

​

Thanks for submitting!

LGBTQ flag

©2025 Authentic Self Counselling

bottom of page