Conquer ARFID: How an ARFID Therapist Can Help You Reclaim Your Life

Welcome to The Smith Counseling Group, where personalized therapy meets real transformation. If you're here, you or someone you love might be struggling with ARFID—and you're not alone.

Introduction: What on Earth is ARFID Anyway?

Ah, ARFID—Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder. It’s quite the mouthful, isn’t it? (Pun totally intended.) But here’s the deal: ARFID isn’t just picky eating. It’s not a phase, it’s not “just being dramatic,” and it definitely isn’t about vanity or dieting trends. ARFID is a legitimate, diagnosable eating disorder that can seriously disrupt a person’s ability to nourish themselves, grow, and live life to the fullest.

If food feels like a battlefield, textures trigger anxiety, or you’re skipping meals not by choice but by dread, an arfid therapist can be a game changer. Here at The Smith Counseling Group, we specialize in turning the tide for clients facing food-related fears, anxieties, and aversions. And guess what? There’s hope—and it starts right here.

Understanding ARFID: More Than Just “Fussy Eating”

Breaking the Stereotypes

“They’ll grow out of it.” Ever heard that one before? That’s one of the biggest myths floating around when it comes to ARFID. While children are often the ones flagged with this disorder, adults can—and do—suffer from ARFID too. And no, it’s not just about being a picky eater. It’s deeper, more complex, and emotionally charged.

So, What Is ARFID Really?

ARFID stands for Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder. It’s a relatively new diagnosis in the DSM-5, and it's characterized by an extremely limited diet due to fear, disinterest in food, or sensory issues. We're talking fear of choking, vomiting, aversions to textures or smells, or even traumatic food experiences.

Common Symptoms of ARFID

• Extreme food selectivity (only eating white foods, crunchy textures, etc.)

• Fear of vomiting, choking, or swallowing

• Very slow eating or skipping meals entirely

• Malnutrition or significant weight loss (or failure to gain weight)

• Emotional distress around mealtimes

Why Seeing an ARFID Therapist Is a Total Game-Changer

Wait... Can't I Just Deal With This Myself?

Sure, you could try. But here’s the truth: ARFID is deeply psychological. You’re not just fighting a food issue—you’re wrestling with fear, anxiety, and possibly even trauma. Going it alone is like trying to fix a leak without plumbing tools. It might hold up for a bit, but eventually, something gives.

The Role of an ARFID Therapist

Enter the superhero: the ARFID therapist. These specialized professionals understand the complexities of eating disorders that aren’t rooted in body image concerns. They’re trained to dig deep, helping clients uncover the root of their eating challenges and slowly build a new, healthier relationship with food.

Why Choose a Specialist?

Not every therapist is equipped to handle ARFID. It’s a very different beast from other eating disorders. At The Smith Counseling Group, our therapists bring expertise in family-based treatment (FBT), cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), and trauma-informed approaches that are particularly effective with ARFID cases.

The Journey with an ARFID Therapist: What to Expect

Step 1: Assessment and Rapport Building

No pressure, no judgment. Just a safe, open space to share what’s been going on. Your ARFID therapist will take time to get to know your history, symptoms, and personal goals. We’re not about cookie-cutter plans—we’re about YOU.

Step 2: Setting Realistic and Gentle Goals

Say goodbye to “just try it” tactics. Therapy starts where you are, not where others think you should be. We work with you to gradually expand your comfort zone, not shove you into it.

Step 3: Exposure and Cognitive Restructuring

Sounds fancy, huh? It’s actually super effective. We gently expose you to feared foods in a supportive setting, helping your brain rewire its response to those triggers. We also challenge those negative thoughts—“What if I choke?”—and teach your mind a new narrative.

Step 4: Family Involvement (When Needed)

Especially with younger clients, family-based treatment is crucial. Parents and caregivers become allies, not enforcers. We empower families to support recovery without pressure or shame.

Why The Smith Counseling Group Is Your Best Bet

Tailored Therapy, Not One-Size-Fits-All

Our therapists don’t just treat symptoms—they treat people. We design customized plans that reflect your goals, your timeline, and your lifestyle. We’re flexible, empathetic, and refreshingly down-to-earth.

Expertise You Can Trust

With years of experience treating eating disorders of all types, we bring both compassion and cutting-edge strategies to every session. Our ARFID therapists are well-versed in CBT, FBT, and mindfulness practices that are backed by research and results.

Conveniently Located in Chevy Chase, MD

You’ll find us at 5530 Wisconsin Ave Suite 802, Chevy Chase, MD 20815. Whether you're coming from D.C., Bethesda, or nearby, we’re easy to reach—and worth the trip.

Real Stories, Real Progress

Amanda’s Story

At 10 years old, Amanda had a list of only 7 foods she would eat. After working with one of our ARFID therapists, she now enjoys over 50. She’s thriving in school, sleeping better, and—bonus—no more power struggles at the dinner table.

Jake’s Journey

A 28-year-old graphic designer, Jake avoided eating out with friends due to fear of unfamiliar textures. Today? He’s planning a foodie trip to Europe. Yep, real change is possible.

Frequently Asked Questions About ARFID and Therapy

Is ARFID the same as anorexia?

Nope. While both involve restricted eating, ARFID is not driven by body image issues. People with ARFID typically don’t fear weight gain—they fear food itself or the experience of eating.

Can adults have ARFID?

Absolutely. Though often diagnosed in children, ARFID can persist into adulthood or even begin later in life due to trauma or illness.

How long does therapy take?

That depends on the individual. Some see progress in a few months; others may take longer. What matters is consistent, compassionate work with a trained ARFID therapist.

The Ripple Effect: How ARFID Impacts Life Beyond the Plate

Food is more than fuel—it’s connection, celebration, culture. ARFID can isolate people, lead to nutritional deficiencies, affect self-esteem, and even complicate social or romantic relationships. Working with an ARFID therapist doesn’t just help you eat—it helps you live.

Let’s Talk About Progress, Not Perfection

Every win matters. Trying a new food. Sitting at the table without fear. Taking one more bite than last time. With the right support, these tiny victories become life-altering milestones.

Ready to Rewrite Your Food Story?

Look—we get it. Asking for help isn’t always easy. But struggling in silence? That’s way harder. Whether you’re a parent desperate to help your child or an adult who’s just now putting the pieces together, The Smith Counseling Group is here to help.

Get in Touch with an ARFID Therapist Today

Let’s ditch the fear, the shame, and the isolation. Let’s build a better relationship with food—together. Your breakthrough starts with a simple step.

📍 Visit us: 5530 Wisconsin Ave Suite 802, Chevy Chase, MD 20815, United States🌐 Website: https://www.thesmithcounselinggroup.com/

👉 Ready to take back your power over food? Contact us today to schedule your consultation with an expert ARFID therapist. Your future self will thank you.