About this course
A Clinician's Guide to CBT-based ARFID Groups: Skills and strategies for therapists and dietitians With the surge in clinical and research interest over the past decade, we have seen good progress in terms of our understanding and conceptualization of ARFID. Several promising psychological treatments, including Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for ARFID (CBT-AR), have been developed and incorporated into all levels of care. While most treatments have been designed to be delivered in individual and family formats, group therapy for ARFID, though largely untested, is an emerging supplemental treatment, with unique benefits, that can be utilized in various settings. In addition to the interpersonal aspect of group delivery, a group approach enables broader access to care and efficient use of clinical resources. This presentation will review the extant literature on the application of an evidence-based cognitive-behavioral approach to ARFID along with a step-by-step guide for group delivery. Specifically, this didactic will provide 1.) a clinical practice update on ARFID-specific multidisciplinary care, 2.) a review of cognitive behavioral and nutritional strategies, and 3.) a practical model for facilitating peer support, social learning, and exposures through a shared group experience. Guidance on how to implement effective and engaging groups, with applied clinical strategies, and case illustrations will be offered. Insights gained from patient feedback and satisfaction surveys, used during the development of a specialized ARFID group program for children and adolescents, will be shared as well.
