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Avoidant/ Restrictive Food Intake Disorder

What is avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder?

Avoidant/ Restrictive Food Intake Disorder has previously been referred to as Selective Eating Disorder. It involves a limitation in the amount and type of foods consumed. This eating disorder does not include stress around the size of body or weight and can be mistaken for children being "picky eaters."

Symptoms of avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder include:

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  • Sudden refusal to eat foods and may no longer eat food they previously ate

  • Fear of choking or vomiting

  • Menstrual irregularities

  • Lack of appetite for no known reason.

  • Fainting/syncope

  • Difficulty eating meals with friends or family

* Disclosure - this video is not intended to diagnose or treat any illness nor is this a substitute for therapy.

Some treatment approaches we use to help you on your ARFID recovery journey are: 

  • Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) 

  • Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)

  • Trauma Informed Care

  • Exposure Therapy (ERP)

  • Nutritional Education

  • Art Therapy

  • Movement Therapy

  • Family Therapy 

  • Parent Coaching

It is possible to recover. There are some tips and tricks that can help provide the support needed to maintain a healthy state of being and resist the temptations to relapse.

  • Admit there is a problem. You do not have to suffer alone. 

  • Begin therapy and create a multidisciplinary team including a HAES therapist, HAES nutritionist, and primary care HAES physician. 

  • Understand that no food is moral. It's not good or bad, just food! 

  • Get rid of your scale and stop focusing on your weight, but focus more on how your body feels.

  • Identify your triggers and work towards finding alternatives.

  • Join a support group, such as our Meal Support Group.

Where can you find therapy for Avoidant / Restrictive Food Intake Disorder?

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If you are struggling with an eating disorder just know that there is help available for you! Recovered and Restored is an Eating Disorder Therapy center based out of Ambler, Pennsylvania. However, all of our therapists are qualified to provide online eating disorder therapy to all residents of Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Florida, and Delaware.​​

Online Therapy for Avoidant / Restrictive Food Intake Disorder?
We provide virtual eating disorder therapy in New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland, South Carolina, and Florida. Some towns served virtually include, but not limited to, are Chester County, Bucks County, Montgomery County, Delaware County, Essex County, Somerset County, Morris County, New Castle County, Sussex County, Kent County, Sarasota County, Broward County, Monroe County, and more.

  • 1. Can you have anorexia at any body size?
    Yes! Anorexia can affect individuals of all body sizes. The term “atypical anorexia” is sometimes used for individuals who meet all the criteria for anorexia but are in a larger body. However, this term is stigmatizing and unnecessary—all individuals with anorexia, regardless of size, deserve treatment and support.
  • How can I support someone struggling with anorexia?
    If you know someone struggling with anorexia: Listen without judgment Avoid making comments about weight, food, or appearance Encourage them to seek professional help Educate yourself about eating disorders Remind them they are worthy of help and healing At Recovered & Restored Eating Disorder Therapy Center, we believe everyone deserves compassionate care. If you or a loved one is struggling with anorexia, reach out to us today to learn more about our online eating disorder therapy services.
  • 2. What are the warning signs of anorexia?
    Some common warning signs include: Drastic weight loss or refusal to maintain a healthy weight Avoiding meals or making excuses not to eat Extreme fear of gaining weight Obsession with calorie counting, dieting, or exercise Distorted body image and seeing themselves as “too big” despite being underweight Fainting, fatigue, dizziness, or irregular menstrual cycles
  • 3. How is anorexia treated?
    Anorexia treatment involves a multidisciplinary approach, including: - Therapy (CBT, DBT, ACT, EMDR, exposure therapy, trauma-informed care, etc.) - Nutritional counseling to restore a balanced relationship with food - Medical monitoring to ensure physical health stability - Support groups and family involvement
  • 4. Does online therapy work for anorexia?
    Yes! Online therapy for anorexia can be highly effective, especially for individuals who prefer the comfort and privacy of their home. At Recovered & Restored Eating Disorder Therapy Center, we offer evidence-based, trauma-informed care through virtual sessions in multiple states, allowing more accessibility for treatment.
  • 5. Can anorexia be fully cured?
    There is no “quick fix” for anorexia, but full recovery is possible with the right treatment, support, and time. Many individuals go on to live full, healthy lives once they receive proper care and develop a better relationship with food and their bodies.
  • 6. Do you take insurance for anorexia treatment?
    At Recovered & Restored, we prioritize providing comprehensive, compassionate care without restrictions from insurance companies. Because of this, we do not accept insurance directly. However, if you have out-of-network benefits, we can provide documentation for potential reimbursement. We encourage you to check with your insurance provider about your out-of-network coverage. While we are not responsible for verifying benefits, we are happy to help guide you through the process if needed. All payments are due at the time of service.
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