Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (CBT-AR)

 At Audra Walsh Psychology Group, we specialize in helping individuals overcome challenging eating patterns through evidence-based treatments like Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (CBT-AR). If you or your child struggles with food avoidance or restrictive eating that affects health and well-being, CBT-AR may be the right approach to help. 

What is CBT-AR?

CBT-AR is a specialized form of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) designed to treat Avoidant Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), a condition where individuals limit the types or amounts of food they eat. This can be due to sensory sensitivities, fear of negative consequences like choking or vomiting, or a lack of interest in food. These eating patterns can lead to nutritional deficiencies, weight loss, or difficulties participating in social meals, and significantly impact overall health.

CBT-AR aims to address the root causes of restrictive eating behaviors by helping individuals gradually overcome their fear of food, build confidence around eating, and develop a more balanced and healthy relationship with food.

Who Might Benefit from CBT-AR?

CBT-AR is beneficial for children, teens, and adults who experience extreme pickiness, avoidant eating, or are anxious about food due to sensory, psychological, or medical concerns. This approach can be adapted for different ages and developmental stages, making it effective for young children as well as adults.

You might benefit from CBT-AR if:

  • You struggle to eat a varied diet due to fear, anxiety, or sensory sensitivities

  • Your restrictive eating has caused weight loss or nutritional deficiencies

  • You avoid social situations involving food, such as eating out or family meals

  • Your eating habits are impacting your mental or physical health

Conditions CBT-AR Addresses  

CBT-AR is specifically designed for those diagnosed with ARFID but can also be helpful for individuals with:

  • Sensory processing issues related to food textures, smells, or tastes

  • Anxiety around eating due to past negative experiences (e.g., choking, vomiting)

  • Food phobias or extreme picky eating

CBT-AR for Kids

For younger children, CBT-AR can be developmentally adapted to meet their specific needs. This includes the use of age-appropriate language, games, and rewards to make the treatment process more engaging. We work closely with parents to guide their children through gradual exposure to new foods, helping them feel safe and supported every step of the way.

With kids, therapy often includes:

  • Positive reinforcement and fun challenges to introduce new foods

  • Involvement of parents or caregivers to practice techniques at home

  • A focus on reducing anxiety around eating in a supportive and caring way

The Research Behind CBT-AR

CBT-AR is backed by growing research that supports its effectiveness. Studies have shown that individuals who undergo CBT-AR see significant improvements in their eating behaviors, nutritional intake, and overall quality of life. The treatment is considered one of the leading approaches for managing ARFID and is continually evolving as new research emerges.

In clinical settings, CBT-AR has been shown to help individuals expand the variety of foods they eat, reduce anxiety around eating, and improve their health outcomes.

Resources to Learn More

If you’d like to learn more about CBT-AR and how it can help you or your loved ones, here are some additional resources:

At Audra Walsh Psychology Group, we are here to help you navigate your journey toward a healthier relationship with food. If you believe CBT-AR might be right for you or your child, feel free to reach out to us for a consultation. We’re here to support you every step of the way.