ARFID: From Fussy Eating to Severe Food Avoidance

Is eating always a battle — whether due to textures, fear of choking, or simply no interest in food at all?

Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) sits on a spectrum. For some, it’s extreme food selectivity. For others, it’s debilitating anxiety around swallowing or eating.

No matter where you sit on that spectrum, help is available — and it doesn’t involve force-feeding, shame, or pressure.

What Is ARFID?

ARFID is an eating disorder characterised by:

  • Avoidance or restriction of food intake

  • A lack of interest in food, sensory sensitivities (e.g. to textures or smells), or fears of choking, vomiting, or illness

  • No body image concerns driving the behaviour

ARFID exists on a continuum:

  • Fussy or picky eating that persists into adolescence or adulthood

  • Sensory-driven eating, where only certain textures or brands feel "safe"

  • Fear-based avoidance, following a distressing event like choking or vomiting

  • Severe food restriction, leading to nutritional deficiencies, weight loss, or dependence on supplements

Who Struggles with ARFID?

ARFID is common in:

  • Children and adolescents

  • Adults who have never been able to “grow out of” restrictive eating

  • People with sensory processing sensitivities or autism traits

  • Those with high anxiety or obsessive-compulsive tendencies

  • Individuals recovering from traumatic medical or feeding experiences

It can be isolating. It can make travel, social events, or eating with others feel impossible. But with the right support, progress is possible.

Therapy for ARFID in Sydney

At Brodie Earl Clinical Psychology, we take a flexible, non-judgemental, evidence-based approach to ARFID treatment — whether the goal is expanding safe foods, reducing anxiety, or restoring nutritional health.

Our treatment may include:

  • CBT-AR (Cognitive Behavioural Therapy for ARFID)
    Specifically designed for ARFID, this structured therapy supports gradual food expansion, reduces distress, and builds eating flexibility.

  • Gentle Exposure Therapy
    Exposure to new foods, smells, or eating situations — always supported and always at your pace.

  • Sensory and Anxiety Regulation
    For those whose eating is impacted by sensitivity or fear, we teach tools to calm the nervous system and reduce avoidance.

  • Schema Therapy
    For clients whose food issues are linked to deeper beliefs or emotional avoidance, schema work can be helpful in making lasting changes.

  • Collaboration with dietitians and GPs
    Where needed, we work with trusted medical and nutritional professionals to support safe recovery.

We understand that trust is essential in ARFID treatment. There’s no pressure or one-size-fits-all approach — we offer a tailored approach to what you need.

What If It’s “Just Fussy Eating”?

It’s okay to ask that question.

If you are eating such a limited range that it’s causing embarrassment, distress, conflict, or health concerns — even if it’s not “severe” — that’s a good reason to seek help.

Why See a Clinical Psychologist?

Our psychologists in Sydney CBD are trained in treating eating disorders across the spectrum, including ARFID.

We provide respectful, research-backed support — with no shame, no blame, and no diet culture.

We’ll help you build a relationship with food that feels safe, flexible, and sustainable.

Start Where You Are — No Pressure

Whether it’s five “safe foods” or fear of every meal, we’ll meet you where you are.

Call: 0450 808 917
Email: admin@brodieearl.com
Book online: enquire now

Food shouldn’t be a source of fear. Let’s help make it feel manageable — maybe even enjoyable — again.