ARFID Therapy in the Sutherland Shire

Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) is an eating disorder characterised by a limited range of foods, avoidance based on sensory experience, or reduced interest in eating. Unlike other eating disorders, ARFID is not driven by concerns about weight or body image. ARFID can affect nutrition, physical health, and daily functioning.

At Evolving Minds Counselling and Psychology in Menai, our psychologists and counsellors provide evidence-based ARFID therapy in Menai and across the Sutherland Shire for children, adolescents and adults. Sessions are available in person at our Menai practice and via secure online appointments across Australia.

What are the signs of ARFID?

ARFID can present in different ways. Common signs include avoiding foods based on texture, taste, smell or appearance, strong sensory sensitivities around food, a limited range of accepted foods, and anxiety around trying new foods. Some people also experience reduced appetite or little interest in eating, difficulty eating in social settings, or distress around mealtimes.

For some families, this shows up as ongoing difficulty introducing new foods or concern about nutritional intake. In adults, it may involve longstanding patterns of restricted eating, or avoiding social situations that involve food.

These patterns are often linked to sensory sensitivities, anxiety, or past experiences with food, and may also sit alongside anxiety, autism, or ADHD. These patterns can become more established over time, so earlier support often makes it easier to build flexibility around food.

How can therapy help with ARFID?

Therapy for ARFID focuses on understanding each person's experience with food and working at a pace that feels manageable. This may involve gradually expanding the range of foods someone feels comfortable with, easing anxiety around eating, and building flexibility around food choices.

Our clinicians take a neuro-affirming, sensory-aware approach, drawing on a range of evidence-based eating disorder therapy approaches, including CBT-informed and exposure-based strategies.

Our team is trained in eating disorders and includes an ANZAED credentialed clinician.