A Heart to Heart About ARFID

The ARFID Talk by Carolyn Comas, LCSW, CED-S  2/14/22

The video is HERE

This was an important talk because these clients do not often find the help they need at standard ED programs. In addition, parents of the kids are suffering from conflicting advice. Carolyn demonstrated a notably compassionate approach and reminded us that ARFID is about fear- that these clients ultimately want to be able to go out in the world and just eat. Disgust responses may be present and patients are very scared.

We learned how to recognize ARFID, including the 3 main types: Lack of interest, Sensory Sensitivity, and Fear of Aversive Consequences- as well as its potential mixed presentation with AN. ARFID clients report feeling very affected by diet culture.

She shared her main tools for assessment and told of a new tool designed by Nancy Zucker for children with ARFID – helping them become more explorative rather than avoidant.

We dove into the 4 stages of the CBT-AR model-including meal prep education, lots of exposures, and homework. Therapists work alongside RD’s to carry out a treatment plan.

Carolyn shared research showing Helpful and Unhelpful strategies for getting kids to eat and emphasized that parents and children alike- get to choose the food they explore. 

Watch the video on our website- including a great Q&A in the second half of this one. *EDLA offers a free Adult ARFID Support Group as well as a Support Group for Parents of Teens with ARFID- see VFED website. Thank you to Carolyn and all who attended.