Understanding ARFID

Gentle Support for Complex Relationships with Food

Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder—better known as ARFID—can be easy to miss and even harder to talk about. If you or your child struggles with eating, but it doesn’t seem to fit the more “traditional” signs of an eating disorder, ARFID may be part of the picture.

At Citrine Counseling, we understand that food challenges are never “just picky eating” or “just a phase.” ARFID is real, it can be incredibly distressing, and it deserves compassionate support.

What Is ARFID?

ARFID is a lesser-known eating disorder that involves highly selective eating or a strong avoidance of food—often not tied to body image or weight concerns. Instead, it may be connected to sensory sensitivities (taste, texture, smell), fear of choking or vomiting, low appetite, or just an overall lack of interest in food.

Because it doesn’t always look like other eating disorders, ARFID often goes unrecognized—especially in adults. But like any eating disorder, it can have a big impact on physical health, emotional well-being, and everyday life.

Signs of ARFID in Adults

Adults with ARFID might not even realize they’re dealing with an eating disorder. If you've always been a "picky eater," struggled to try new foods, or felt overwhelmed by mealtimes, some of these signs may sound familiar:

  • A very limited variety of foods eaten regularly

  • Avoiding social situations involving food

  • Anxiety around unfamiliar foods or textures

  • Low energy, fatigue, or difficulty maintaining weight

  • Nutritional deficiencies despite eating "enough" volume

  • History of being called a “selective eater” since childhood

  • Feeling embarrassed, anxious, or isolated because of eating habits

You deserve support—even if you’ve lived with these challenges for years. It’s never too late to work toward peace with food.

Signs of ARFID in Children

Kids with ARFID often aren’t just “going through a phase.” If mealtimes are a daily battle or your child only eats a handful of foods, it could be more than picky eating:

  • Limited food choices (often “safe foods”)

  • Avoiding entire food groups (e.g., all fruits or all proteins)

  • Intense anxiety or distress at mealtime

  • Refusing food based on texture, smell, or color

  • Difficulty eating in school, restaurants, or social settings

  • Fear of choking, gagging, or vomiting

As a parent, it’s easy to feel frustrated or worried—but you’re not alone. Therapy can help your child (and you!) feel more confident, calm, and supported around food.

There’s Help—and There’s Hope

ARFID can be complex, but healing doesn’t have to be scary. At Citrine Counseling, we create a safe, understanding space where kids, teens, college students, and can explore their relationship with food at a pace that feels right. No pressure, no shame—just support, strategies, and small, meaningful steps forward.

Whether you’re seeking therapy for yourself or your child, we're here to walk with you.

Reach out today to learn more or schedule. You deserve care that understands the whole you.