At Layers Counseling Specialists, we specialize in helping children, teens, and adults overcome Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID). ARFID is a challenging eating disorder, but with the right support and therapy, individuals can learn to develop a healthier relationship with food, reduce anxiety around eating, and gain the nutrition their body needs.

What Is ARFID?

ARFID is an eating disorder characterized by an extreme avoidance or restriction of food intake. Unlike other eating disorders such as anorexia or bulimia, ARFID is not driven by concerns about body weight or shape. Instead, ARFID often stems from:

• Sensory sensitivities (e.g., texture, taste, smell)

• Fear of choking or vomiting

• Lack of interest in food

While anorexia and bulimia involve a focus on weight and body image, individuals with ARFID avoid eating due to sensory issues or fear-based reasons, which can still lead to significant health consequences such as malnutrition and weight loss.

How Is ARFID Different from Other Eating Disorders?

ARFID differs from other eating disorders primarily because it is not rooted in body image or weight concerns. People with ARFID avoid food due to sensory sensitivities, fear of adverse reactions like choking, or a lack of interest in food altogether. In contrast, individuals with anorexia or bulimia often restrict food intake due to a desire to control their weight or appearance. This key difference is important in treatment, as ARFID requires addressing anxiety and sensory issues rather than focusing on body image.

Despite these differences, ARFID can be just as serious as other eating disorders, leading to malnutrition, social difficulties, and significant anxiety around meals. With specialized therapy, individuals can overcome these challenges and improve their relationship with food.

Signs and Symptoms of ARFID

Common signs that someone might be struggling with ARFID include:

• Avoiding certain foods due to their texture, smell, or appearance

• Limited variety of foods in the diet, often eating the same few “safe” foods

• Fear of choking or vomiting after eating certain foods

• Significant weight loss or failure to gain weight as expected

• Nutritional deficiencies leading to physical health issues such as fatigue or weakened immune system

ARFID can severely impact an individual’s physical and emotional well-being, but with specialized treatment, recovery is possible.

Our Approach to ARFID Therapy

At Layers Counseling Specialists, we understand that ARFID is not a simple issue of “picky eating” but a serious eating disorder that requires a compassionate, evidence-based approach. We provide a range of therapeutic modalities tailored to each individual's needs:

• Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP): ERP is a highly effective treatment for reducing food-related anxiety. We work with clients to gradually expose them to feared foods in a safe, controlled environment while helping them manage the distress that arises. Over time, this reduces the anxiety and avoidance behaviors surrounding food.

• Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): CBT helps individuals understand and change the thought patterns that contribute to their restrictive eating habits. By challenging unhelpful beliefs and developing healthier behaviors, clients can feel more in control of their food choices.

• Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT): ACT teaches clients to accept uncomfortable thoughts and feelings related to food without letting them dictate their actions. By aligning their behavior with their values—such as maintaining their health and enjoying social meals—clients can make more intentional food choices.

• Parent Education and Family Support: For children and adolescents, we provide guidance to parents on how to best support their child’s progress in therapy and create a positive, low-pressure environment around meals.

Addressing the Emotional Impact of ARFID

ARFID often leads to anxiety, fear, and social isolation due to difficulties eating in public or with others. We recognize the emotional toll that ARFID can take and provide holistic support to address these challenges. Through our therapy, clients can:

• Reduce food-related anxiety

• Develop confidence around eating in social situations

• Improve their emotional regulation skills when facing food challenges

ARFID and Co-Occurring Conditions

Many individuals with ARFID may also struggle with other mental health conditions, such as:

• Anxiety disorders (social anxiety, generalized anxiety, panic disorder)

• Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder (OCD)

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

• ADHD

• PTSD & Complex Trauma

At Layers Counseling Specialists, we recognize the importance of treating the whole person. Our team is trained in addressing co-occurring conditions, ensuring that all aspects of our clients' well-being are considered during treatment.

Why Choose Layers Counseling Specialists for ARFID Therapy?

• Specialized Expertise: Our therapists are trained in treating ARFID and other complex eating disorders, providing highly tailored care for each client.

• Whole-Person Approach: We address not only the physical aspects of ARFID but also the emotional and psychological impacts, helping clients develop a healthier, more positive relationship with food.

• Collaborative Support: For children and teens, we work closely with families to ensure that parents feel empowered to support their child’s progress at home.

Ready to Start Your Recovery?

If you or a loved one is struggling with ARFID, Layers Counseling Specialists is here to help. Our compassionate, expert team will guide you through a treatment plan designed to meet your unique needs and help you take steps toward recovery. Contact us today to schedule a free 15-minute consultation and begin the journey toward a healthier relationship with food.