Episode 234: Beyond Picky Eating: How to Recognize and Treat ARFID [featuring Dr. Marianne Miller]
In this episode, Patrick Casale and Dr. Marianne Miller break down critical myths about Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) and offer practical, compassionate approaches for clinicians, parents, and anyone supporting neurodivergent folks with eating challenges.
Here are 3 key takeaways:
- ARFID is not “picky eating”: Labeling someone as a “picky eater” implies willfulness or stubbornness, when ARFID is in fact a complex, involuntary experience often tied to sensory processing and interoceptive cues.
- A collaborative, sensory-affirming approach matters: Treating ARFID requires asking nuanced questions about sensory preferences, hunger awareness, and family dynamics. Pressure, shame, and coercion do more harm than good—compassion and understanding are the foundation of effective support.
- Education is essential—for providers and families: Ongoing education and unlearning old beliefs is vital. There are fantastic resources and training for therapists, parents, and adults living with ARFID to build understanding and empathy.
More about Dr. Marianne:
Dr. Marianne is a licensed therapist with nearly 30 years in mental health and 13 years specializing in eating disorders. She spent 12 years as a full-time academic before moving into full-time private practice in 2018. She is the host of the Dr. Marianne-Land podcast and creates online education, including her ARFID and Selective Eating course. Her work centers a non-diet, liberation-focused, Health at Every Size (HAES®) approach and supports people of all genders and neurotypes. She is neurodivergent and LGBTQIA+ affirming.
- Instagram: instagram.com/drmariannemiller
- ARFID and Selective Eating Course: drmariannemiller.com/arfid
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Mentioned in this episode:
The Receptionist for iPad
The Receptionist for iPad is a HIPAA-ready digital check-in system that eliminates the need to walk back and forth from your office to the waiting room to see if your next appointment has arrived. Clients or patients can check in for their appointments, and you'll be immediately notified by text, email, or your preferred channel. Break free from interruptions and make the most of your time, because it is valuable. Start a free 14-day trial of the Receptionist for iPad by going to https://thereceptionist.com/privatepractice. Make sure to start your trial with that link to get your first month free if you decide to sign up.
