I’m Catharine Baker

clinical nutritionist.

australia-wide.

here to make a difference.

I know first-hand what it’s like to live with a chronic condition – and manage it successfully and happily without drugs.

I was diagnosed with Crohn’s Disease, a chronic bowel condition, when I was 21. Over the following fifteen years I saw many medical professionals and had many stays in hospital, with varying degrees of success.

Exhausted and barely coping, I returned to my corporate job after having my second child and became very sick again. With no other medical options left to me, I was given one choice – surgery.

As a last resort I decided to see a Holistic Nutritionist while still working with my medical team, which proved to be the turning point in my life.

I have never needed that surgery and today live drug-free with very few symptoms. I can manage my condition and enjoy life (with chocolate and wine!) by knowing how to make relevant food and lifestyle changes.

The question I’m most frequently asked is,

What does a clinical nutritionist do?

When we first meet, my priority is to truly listen to you. I’ll ask about your symptoms, lifestyle, and what you want to achieve with your health. This helps me understand your unique story and goals so we can start on the right path together.

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Next, I’ll work with you to uncover the root causes of your health concerns. Using my training, the latest research, and functional testing, I’ll identify any nutritional imbalances or underlying issues. My focus is always on treating the cause, not just the symptoms, so we can create lasting change.

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Finally, we’ll build a personalised plan that fits your pace and preferences. Whether you prefer gentle, step-by-step adjustments or more significant changes, I’ll guide you with dietary, lifestyle, and supplement recommendations. Together, we’ll work toward relieving your symptoms, restoring your health, and achieving your long-term goals.

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My approach

Pathology testing

Blood tests, gut microbiome tests, SIBO breath tests and hormone testing relevant to your symptoms

Structured plan

Multi-stage diet plan personalised to you based on clinical research

Supplements

Practitioner-dose targeted nutrient supplements to support long term health during dietary change

Coaching

As a functional holistic nutritionist, I combine education, accountability and regular support to help you meet your health goals

Here’s how I can help you

Many of you come to me feeling like you’re just coping—your symptoms might be affecting your daily life at home, work, or socially. You may already eat healthily but feel frustrated that it’s not working, or you might have a new diagnosis and need specific dietary support. Some of you simply don’t know where to start but are tired of feeling less than your best. Wherever you are, I’ll meet you there.

I work with patients of all ages and conditions, focusing on balancing health optimisation with enjoying life. My approach is realistic and practical, tailored to your needs and lifestyle. I’ll support you with coaching to help break through habits or beliefs holding you back. If you have a diagnosed condition, I’ll collaborate with your GP or medical team, as nutrition is often one piece of the puzzle alongside medications or treatments.

Whatever your health or nutrition challenges, we’ll work together to create a personalised plan that fits your life and helps you feel your best.

Empowering your health, step by step

Empowering your health, step by step

CHECK OUT SOME OF MY SERVICES

Banish the bloat

FAQs

  • No! I see people with and without medical diagnoses, and can work in partnership with other health professionals to deliver the best results for you.

    I will always refer back to Medicare if indicated.

  • Yes. However, as a holistic nutritionist I find that most of my patients get much better results with a longer term approach. For this reason I offer flexible support packages starting at 3 appointments. However, I understand that occasionally a single appointment might be all it takes, so let’s discuss your particular needs and find the right solution for your health needs.

  • I am registered with major health funds, but Medicare do not currently offer rebates for nutrition.

  • My SIBO/ IBS and Metabolic Balance plans offer a list of food suggestions, and I do offer recipe books to support these diet programs.

    For other patients, I don’t typically give you a specific menu to follow. I find most clients need to make adjustments to their own dietary habits by adding or swapping foods or quantities. This makes dietary change much more manageable for long term success, especially for family eating.

  • I have treated children, but my preferred age range is 12 and over.

  • Yes! Weight loss coaching is made as easy as possible through my signature personalised weight loss program designed to balance your metabolism and achieve long term successful weight loss. We focus on developing good habits and the weight loss is the side effect of better health! Weight loss coaching is an important part of the metabolic balance diet program.

  • My goal is always to upskill you so you don’t need me! Typically, patients work with me for around 4-6 months to resolve a specific issue. This usually takes 5-6 appointments.

    However, many patients work with me long term for weight loss coaching, chronic disease management and to stay accountable for their diet changes

  • Yes. I can refer to your local pathology lab for appropriate testing without needing a GP referral.

    Some tests can be done at home, including saliva and stool tests. Results will be shared with your GP with your permission.

  • There may be some overlap, but Nutritionists take a holistic approach to your health, and seek to uncover the root cause of your condition. We usually work with private clients as 1:1 patients. I don’t focus on calories or tracking macro nutrients, preferring a deeper focus on micro nutrients and imbalances, as well as personalised diet coaching to deliver you optimal results.