Karen Smith

About Karen

Food and nutrition has interested me since I was a kid and for the past 20 years has led me down a winding path consisting of work in community health, clinical care, research, education, and private practice. I hold an MS in Lifestyle Health Sciences and Health Coaching from the University of North Texas Health Science Center, am Board Certified in Lifestyle Medicine, and bring training as a CDCES, health coach, and RDN to every client session. Based in Bel Air, Maryland, I am an avid runner and active in my local running club. I have run races from 1 mile to 100 miles and appreciate the life lessons and community that running provides. I love helping people use their strengths and connect their values to everyday behaviors for long-term success.

Approach to care

Science guides the plans I offer, and empathy shapes how I work with patients. I ground recommendations in current evidence while keeping the whole person in view, including sleep, movement, stress, and values. I use a weight-neutral perspective, focusing on sustainable behaviors rather than quick fixes. I aim to be direct and action-oriented when helpful, translating research into simple, practical steps and teaching skills so you can make informed choices and keep changes going long term.

Your first session with Karen

I make the first appointment a relaxed, curiosity-driven conversation where I review your medical history and look closely at current eating, physical activity, sleep, and stress management habits. Together we'll establish a couple of short-term goals and sketch a long-term vision that links to what matters most to you. This is a judgment-free space, and you don't need to have everything figured out. I'll help you leave with clear, manageable steps and a plan for how we'll track progress together.

Location

📍 Bel Air, Maryland

Education

MS in Lifestyle Health Sciences and Health Coaching, University of North Texas Health Science Center

Hobbies

Running, lifting, reading/learning

Licenses and Certifications