Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)

AVOIDANT RESTRICTIVE FOOD INTAKE DISORDER (ARFID)

There are many ways that symptoms of ARFID show up. Some people with the disorder have fears about eating, while some are simply not interested in food. Still others are sensitive to the sensory aspects of food. As a result of their aversion or fear, those with ARFID often do not eat enough and may, therefore, have a low body weight. In addition, people with ARFID tend to be limited in the foods they are willing to eat. Whether because of under eating or a lack of variety in food, people with the disorder may become nutrient deficient. In fact, by the time people seek therapy for ARFID, some may be dependent on supplements or feeding tubes.

In addition to the physical symptoms of the disorder, ARFID can impair a person’s psychosocial functioning. For example, someone with ARFID might find their lack of food choices embarassing. Moreover, some will not not eat at restaurants because of their limited diets.

THERAPY FOR ARFID

Research supports the use of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT-AR) in the treatment of ARFID. CBT-AR includes a specific type of behavioral therapy known as Exposure and Response Prevention (ERP). In treatment, those with ARFID learn to slowly but surely face the foods that they’ve been avoiding. While facing these experiences, individuals with ARFID learn to refrain from safety behaviors. That is to say, people with ARFID practice eating without asking for reassurance or over chewing foods.

INTERESTED IN THERAPY FOR ARFID?

Are you or a loved one struggling with extreme picky eating and looking for help? The therapists at The Center for the Obsessive Mind use Cognitive Behavioral Therapy and Acceptance and Commitment Therapy to support individuals with ARFID. You can learn more about the treatments and services we provides here.

LOCATIONS

The Center for the Obsessive Mind offers

therapy in several states and internationally.

Learn more about where the staff practices, below.

CALIFORNIA

The Center for the Obsessive Mind’s staff therapists offer online treatment for eating disorders throughout California. Our Clients span from San Francisco down to Southern Orange County and San Diego. Whether you’re in Silicon Valley, Santa Barbara, Beverly Hills or Dana Point, the Center’s staff can support you in your recovery.

UTAH

Staff members at the Center for the Obsessive Mind offer online treatment for eating disorders in the state of Utah. Since we provide teletherapy, we work with people who live in different areas of the Beehive State – from Salt Lake City and its suburbs, like West Jordan, Syracuse, Highland and Riverton, to Park City and St. George.

FLORIDA

Therapists at the Center for the Obsessive Mind also offer online treatment for eating disorders in Florida. We see people from all corners of the Sunshine state. Whether you’re from Naples, Orlando, Miami, or Boca Raton, we can provide specialized counseling remotely in your area.

NEVADA

Therapists at the Center for the Obsessive Mind also practice teletherapy in Nevada. So if you’re seeking help in Glenbrook, Incline Village, Reno or Las Vegas, we offer specialized therapy for eating disorders online across the Silver State.

INTERNATIONAL

In addition to all of the locations previously listed, the staff at the Center for the Obsessive Mind offer teletherapy for eating disorders to a number of countries internationally. You can learn

ONLINE

Online therapy isn’t right for everyone. An assessment can determine if online therapy is appropriate for your needs. Reach out here to learn more. Check out this article from the American Psychological Association or read this article that our Director, Lauren Rosen, LMFT, contributed to.