Avoidant / Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) is a condition that can impact people of all ages, including children, adolescents and adults.

ARFID is an eating or feeding disorder where a person’s food intake is persistently limited or restricted in variety and/or quantities, and can result in a failure to meet nutritional needs, nutritional deficits and interfere with a person’s quality of life. Food may be restricted due to sensory issues, based upon the taste, texture, smell or appearance of the food or in an attempt to avoid the food group entirely (e.g. vegetables). Certain foods may also be avoided due to a fear that eating will result in a negative consequence (e.g. choking, vomiting) or due to a lack of interest in food and early satiety.

Recovery from ARFID is a gradual process that requires patience, understanding, and expert guidance. Our skilled team of psychologists and dietitians are committed to walking alongside individuals and families as they work towards expanding their food repertoire, improving their nutritional status, and regaining a healthier relationship with food.

Note - due to the complexity of ARFID, a multidisciplinary team approach is recommended. Some individuals with ARFID may require additional services and referrals to specialist professions (i.e. Occupational Therapist or Speech Pathologist) to adequately meet the needs of the individual.

Our services:

• Our ARFID clinic is suitable for children (>6 years), adolescents and adults with significant food restrictions.

• Psychological diagnostic assessments, to diagnose ARFID, provide feedback and detailed recommendations.

• Nutritional Assessments with a Dietitian

• Psychological treatment interventions (including anxiety management and coping skills, behavioural strategies & exposure to new foods)

• Dietetic treatment interventions (including comprehensive understanding of nutritional needs, individualised meal plan, nutritional education and skills to improve your relationship with food).