Therapy for ARFID
Specialist psychotherapy for children and young people with ARFID. Available online in the UK, without the wait.
Understanding ARFID
Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder, or ARFID, is an eating disorder characterised by a severely limited range of accepted foods or a significant avoidance of eating altogether. Unlike other eating disorders such as anorexia or bulimia, ARFID has nothing to do with body image or a desire to lose weight. The restriction is driven instead by sensory sensitivities, a fear of adverse consequences such as choking or vomiting, a general lack of interest in food, or a combination of these.
ARFID is frequently misunderstood, both by those who encounter it and sometimes by professionals. Parents of children with ARFID are often told their child is simply fussy, that they will grow out of it, or that they just need to be firmer at mealtimes. In reality, ARFID is a recognised clinical condition that does not resolve through willpower or pressure, and that requires specialist therapeutic support.
The range of presentations is wide. Some young people with ARFID will eat only a very small number of specific foods, often based on texture, colour or brand. Others avoid eating due to a fear of choking, illness or vomiting. Others show little interest in food at all, eating only when prompted and never experiencing hunger or enjoyment around mealtimes. What these presentations share is that the restriction is significant enough to affect nutrition, growth, daily functioning or quality of life.
The Impact on Family Life
ARFID rarely affects only the young person experiencing it. Mealtimes, which for most families are a routine and social occasion, can become a source of significant stress and anxiety for everyone involved. Parents often find themselves preparing separate meals, negotiating around accepted foods, and managing the distress that arises when routines are disrupted or familiar foods are unavailable.
Social situations involving food, which are a normal part of childhood and adolescence, can feel impossible to navigate. School lunches, birthday parties, restaurants, holidays and family gatherings all present challenges that other families take for granted. Many young people with ARFID become increasingly reluctant to participate in social events as a result, and the isolation this creates can compound the difficulties they are already experiencing.
Parents frequently carry a significant burden of guilt, worry and exhaustion. The judgement of others, whether from extended family, schools or even medical professionals who do not fully understand the condition, can add to an already difficult situation. It is important to know that ARFID is not the result of poor parenting, and that with the right specialist support, real progress is possible.
Hi, I'm Christina
I am trained in CBT for ARFID, a specialist approach specifically developed for this condition. ARFID is frequently misunderstood, even within clinical settings, and working with a therapist who has specific training and experience in this area makes a real difference to outcomes.
Hi, I'm Christina
I am trained in CBT for ARFID, a specialist approach specifically developed for this condition. ARFID is frequently misunderstood, even within clinical settings, and working with a therapist who has specific training and experience in this area makes a real difference to outcomes.
How We Treat ARFID
At Sulis Therapies, we treat ARFID using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), a specialist approach specifically developed for the condition. Following a comprehensive assessment, and in conjunction with discussion with the young person and their parent or carer, we will put together a treatment plan tailored to their individual needs and the specific nature of their ARFID presentation.
CBT for ARFID is a structured, evidence-based approach that addresses the thoughts, feelings and behaviours maintaining the food avoidance or restriction. Treatment is tailored to the individual presentation, whether that is sensory-based avoidance, fear of adverse consequences such as choking or vomiting, or low interest in food.
Working at a pace that feels manageable, young people are supported to gradually expand their range of accepted foods or reduce the anxiety associated with eating, building confidence and improving their relationship with food over time.
CBT for ARFID often involves parents directly in the therapeutic process. Some sessions may be parent-led, and in some cases sessions with parents alone will form part of the treatment, reflecting the important role parents play in supporting progress at home and during mealtimes.
We would usually recommend speaking to your GP alongside pursuing therapy, as they may refer to a dietician who can provide additional nutritional support.
Quick Answers
How do I know if my child needs therapy for ARFID?
If your child's restricted eating is affecting their nutrition, growth, social life or daily functioning, therapy is likely to help. You do not need to wait until things reach a crisis point. If mealtimes are a source of significant stress, or if your child's limited diet is having an impact on their quality of life or development, it is worth seeking specialist support sooner rather than later.
What ages do you treat?
We work with children and young people up to the age of 26.
How many sessions will my child need?
This depends entirely on your child and the nature of their difficulties. The initial sessions focus on understanding what your child is experiencing and putting together a clear plan for therapy. At that stage we will be able to give you a much clearer idea of how many sessions we feel would be beneficial.
How often will my child need to attend sessions?
We recommend sessions at least once a week for the best results, though we can discuss a more intensive programme if that suits your child's needs. We offer flexible appointments including evenings and weekends to fit around your family's schedule.
How much do sessions cost?
CBT sessions last 60 minutes and cost £85. EMDR sessions last 90 minutes and cost £100. A free initial consultation is available so we can discuss your child's needs before committing to a programme of therapy.
If your child is struggling with ARFID, we're here to help. Get in touch today to arrange a free initial consultation and find out how we can support your family.
