Holly Maree Pickford
Optimum Intake Dietitians
About
At Optimum Intake we are undertaking a new approach to health and well-being, to bring people an alternative to restrictive dieting in their quest for improved health. We want to move you away from the restrictive dieting mentality (where the success rate is at best, 5%) as it doesn't lead to improvements in health, both physically or mentally. It is called Intuitive Eating or the Non-Dieting Approach to health.
We want you to feel energised after seeing us and to feel satisfied with the food you choose to eat and to really experience the pleasure of eating once again. We address both the nutritional and behavioural aspects of eating to support your health and lifestyle. We view our role as dietitians in the prevention and treatment of health conditions, to also include establishing a positive relationship with all foods, forming healthy eating practices and a balanced view towards eating.
All of our clients receive evidence-based, individualised strategies and tools.
Approach: Non-diet, HAES-aligned, intuitive eating, compassionate, client-centred, inclusive, evidence-based. Focus on listening first, building skills and confidence, and sustainable long-term change rather than restrictive dieting.
Weight Loss Approach
Non-diet approach and Health at Every Size (HAES) aligned. Focuses on sustainable habits, intuitive eating, body acceptance, and internal hunger/fullness cues rather than calorie counting, food diaries, or weight targets. Explicitly moves clients away from restrictive dieting.
For clients on GLP-1 medications, dietitian-led nutrition support is also available.
Yes. Optimum Intake offers a dedicated 'GLP-1 Medications and Weight Loss Support' service for clients using or considering GLP-1 medications such as semaglutide (Ozempic, Wegovy), tirzepatide (Mounjaro), and liraglutide (Saxenda). Dietitian support focuses on nutrition guidance to complement medication and support long-term success. The practice has published blog content on weight regain risks when stopping GLP-1 medications.
Yes. Post-bariatric surgery nutrition support is offered, including customised dietary plans to support recovery and reduce the risk of nutritional deficiencies.
Areas of Expertise
Location
Optimum Intake Dietitians
17/19 Reliance Drive, Tuggerah NSW 2259 (Arc Business Village)
Multiple Locations
Yes. Two clinic locations: Tuggerah (Central Coast) and Broadmeadow (Newcastle, operating from Myrtle Oak Clinic). Home visits also available.
Qualifications
- APD (Accredited Practising Dietitian)
Memberships
- Dietitians Australia
Rebates & Insurance
Medicare
Medicare rebates available with a GP referral (specific referral required for Medicare claims). No further detail on rebate amounts or session limits stated on website.
NDIS
NDIS registered provider for disability dietitian and nutrition support services. Plan-managed, self-managed, and agency-managed details not explicitly stated.
Referral
No referral required to book. A GP referral is required if claiming Medicare rebates.
Book a Consultation
Begins with a comprehensive nutritional assessment. Collaborative session focused on understanding the client's needs to form a personalised nutrition plan. Care Coordinators match clients to the best-suited dietitian prior to booking.
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