Virtual ARFID Support Group for Parents & Caregivers
Supporting a child with ARFID can feel overwhelming, isolating, and You don't have to navigate it alone.
When your child struggles with Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID), everyday experiences like family meals, grocery shopping, and trying new foods can become sources of anxiety and frustration. You may find yourself constantly worrying about nutrition, navigating food avoidance, or wondering how to support your child without creating additional pressure.
At The Collective: Therapy by Francesca Emma, LMHC, our virtual ARFID Support Group for Parents and Caregivers offers a supportive space to connect with others who understand these challenges, gain practical tools, and feel less alone. Led by Brian Fitzgerald, LMHC, an experienced eating disorder therapist with specialized experience treating ARFID in residential and telehealth settings, this group combines education, peer connection, and compassionate support.
What You'll Gain
A better understanding of ARFID, food avoidance, and the anxiety surrounding eating
Practical strategies to reduce mealtime stress and family conflict
Tools for supporting food exploration without pressure or power struggles
Opportunities to connect with other parents and caregivers navigating similar challenges
Support for managing your own stress, emotions, and caregiver fatigue
Who Is This Group For?
Parents and caregivers of children, adolescents, and young adults experiencing ARFID, extreme picky eating, or significant food avoidance.
Whether your child has recently received an ARFID diagnosis or your family has been navigating feeding challenges for years, this group offers a place to feel understood and supported.
Group Details
Format: Virtual
Cost: $30 per session
Facilitator: Brian Fitzgerald, LMHC
Contact: Interested in joining or learning more?
Complete our brief ARFID Parent & Caregiver Support Group Interest Form, and someone from The Collective will be in touch with additional information.
You can also email us at hello@thecollectivetherapy.org with any questions.
You spend so much time making sure your child is supported. This is a space for you, too.
This group provides education and peer support and is not a substitute for individualized eating disorder treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions About ARFID and Parent Support
What is ARFID (Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder)?
ARFID is an eating disorder characterized by restrictive or avoidant eating that can affect a person's nutrition, health, growth, or daily functioning. Unlike anorexia nervosa, ARFID is not primarily driven by concerns about Frequently Asked Questions About ARFID and Parent Support
What is ARFID (Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder)?
ARFID is an eating disorder characterized by restrictive or avoidant eating that can affect a person's nutrition, health, growth, or daily functioning. Unlike anorexia nervosa, ARFID is not primarily driven by concerns about weight or body image. Individuals with ARFID may struggle with sensory sensitivities, fear of choking or vomiting, or limited interest in food and eating.
Where can I find an ARFID support group for parents?
The Collective: Therapy by Francesca Emma, LMHC offers a therapist-led ARFID Parent & Caregiver Support Group facilitated by Brian Fitzgerald, LMHC, a licensed mental health counselor experienced in treating eating disorders, including ARFID. The group provides a supportive space for parents and caregivers to connect, share experiences, and develop a better understanding of their loved one's challenges with food and eating.
How can I help my child or teenager who has ARFID?
Supporting a child with ARFID can be frustrating, confusing, and emotionally exhausting. While every child's needs are different, reducing pressure around food, understanding the fears or sensory challenges contributing to avoidance, and working collaboratively with qualified treatment providers can help. Parent support groups offer opportunities to learn strategies, explore challenges, and feel less alone in the process.
Is ARFID the same as picky eating?
Not exactly. Although ARFID can sometimes look like extreme picky eating, it involves more significant challenges that may affect nutritional intake, growth, physical health, or everyday functioning. Children, teenagers, and adults with ARFID may experience intense anxiety or distress around eating. A qualified healthcare professional can help determine whether eating difficulties meet the criteria for ARFID.
Can parents benefit from an ARFID support group even if their child is already in treatment?
Absolutely. Supporting someone with ARFID can impact the entire family. Even when a child or loved one is receiving professional treatment, parents and caregivers may benefit from additional emotional support, education, and connection with others navigating similar challenges. A caregiver group complements, rather than replaces, individualized treatment.
Do I need to have a child with a formal ARFID diagnosis to seek support?
Not necessarily. Parents and caregivers may begin looking for guidance before receiving a formal diagnosis. If your child or loved one experiences significant food avoidance, distress around meals, sensory-related eating challenges, or anxiety about eating, reaching out can be a helpful first step. Contact The Collective to discuss whether this group is an appropriate fit.
How much does the ARFID Parent & Caregiver Support Group cost?
The group costs $30 per session and is led by Brian Fitzgerald, LMHC. For additional information about participation and upcoming sessions, contact hello@thecollectivetherapy.org.
How do I join the ARFID Parent & Caregiver Support Group?
Interested in learning more about our ARFID Parent & Caregiver Support Group? Complete our brief interest form to receive additional information about upcoming sessions, group details, and how to participate.
Click here to fill out our ARFID Support Group Interest Form
You can also contact us at hello@thecollectivetherapy.org with any questions.