Meet Shani

Let me start with some good news:

It really is possible to enjoy food, nourish your body well, and feel good in your skin — all without cutting out the pleasure, comfort, and joy that food brings to your life.

I know this because I’ve lived it. Before I ever became a dietitian, I built a gourmet catering company —Shani Cake Catering and Dessert Company — and taught culinary classes at Sur La Table. Cooking has always been part of my identity… and so has the lifelong desire to find balance.

My own health journey showed me how food could support healing, energy, and vitality in ways I never expected. That realization inspired me to blend my love of food with the science of nutrition. I went on to earn my nutrition and dietetics degree and then joined the world-renowned Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. Working across five departments, I saw firsthand how nutrition could help prevent the reason for hospitalization in the first place and how giving people time and space to make lifestyle shifts could improve health — and change lives.

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Professional Experience

For 16 years, I’ve supported women and families through some of the most important transitions of their life.

From my early work at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center to my years in private practice, I’ve guided clients through weight-related concerns, hormonal and metabolic shifts, elevated blood sugar and cholesterol, digestive issues, disordered eating, emotional eating, and family nutrition challenges.

What I’ve learned is simple: meaningful change doesn’t happen from information alone. It happens when you feel seen, supported, and understood — when care includes empathy, connection, and accountability.

My Philosophy

Optimal nutrition isn’t about restriction, willpower, or perfection. It’s about understanding your body — with compassion — and learning how to support it in the reality of your everyday life.

I help women and families build confidence around food, reconnect with their body’s signals, and create habits that truly last. My approach blends science, empathy, and deep respect for your lived experience.

In our work together, I tailor every plan to your values, your lifestyle, and your unique needs.

Most of all, I want you to feel safe, understood, and confident in how to nourish yourself — so you can finally feel like yourself again.

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Credentials & Background

  • Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) — 16 years of experience

  • BA in Psychology, University of California, Santa Barbara

  • MS in Nutrition, California State University, Northridge

  • Former Clinical Dietitian, Cedars-Sinai Medical Center

  • Former In House Dietitian at California Center for Healthy Living, Los Angeles

  • Former Culinary Instructor, Sur La Table

  • Founder, Shani Cake Catering and Dessert Company

Outside the Office

When I’m not meeting with clients, you’ll likely find me cooking, hiking our beautiful local trails, playing pickleball, or spending time with my family and friends.

I lead with my heart — in my life and in my work — and I bring that same warmth and care to every person I support.

If you’re ready to feel more nourished, confident, and at home in your body, I would be honored to help you on that journey.

A woman at a farmer's market holding a chalkboard sign that reads 'Everyone's Favorite', with baskets of red and pink apples around her under a white canopy, and other market stalls and shoppers in the background.